Music in yoga - what role does it play and where can it shift our concentration?
Whether you hear the tinkling tones of drops in nature, the melody of a Zen flute, or the sound of waves in the background, the music will always transport you to the one place of your peaceful oasis - to your inner self, where you are just yourself and in complete concentration, thanks to the soothing music you choose during your yoga practice or even during simple meditation.
For me, it's a transport to a whole other dimension where I feel a special strength and determination to accomplish the impossible with the right music on the mat. Yes, the music creates invisible wings for me to feel gentle and relaxed.
Nowadays, it is increasingly popular to combine music with yoga, enriching the traditional silence of yoga with melodies that enhance our experience.
In this article, I would like to delve into how music, when combined with yoga, can beautifully lift our inner selves into a balanced, weightless state, offering personal insights and feelings as well as tips for integrating this harmonious blend into our lives...
The role of music in yoga
The music starts playing and I unfold the mat. The preparation itself is like a ritual that changes everything. The moment when I feel the stress and events of the day that have occupied me to the point of exhaustion leave me. But by combining these two important elements, a new journey begins.
This combination promotes a deeper connection to the present moment and a peaceful state of mind.
So what exactly is it helping to do?
1. Strengthens concentration!
Soft, ambient melodies can help minimize distractions and enhance us staying focused on our breath and movements.
This synchronization of music with the breath is guaranteed to deepen the meditation aspect of yoga and promote inner peace.
I have noticed a significant breathing improvement on several occasions, and even stiffness has left me during the more challenging asanas.
2. Emotionally relaxing!
Certain melodies can evoke emotions that, when brought up during practice, can lead to a unique experience. I myself have experienced such powerful emotional moments that have sent goosebumps down my body, creating relaxing tears. This surprise allowed me to pause for a moment and allow myself to ebb into the position of a child. It is proof that the pains but also the joys have surfaced, allowing you to remove blocks in certain areas of your body and mind.
Music that resonates on a personal level can make the practice seem more therapeutic.
3. Create a ritual!
Incorporating specific songs into your yoga routine can signal to your brain that it's time to move into a different space - mentally and physically.
For me, identifying specific tunes or songs is essential to leading a class.
When I arrive in the room, I choose a tune that lets everyone know they are safe, can exhale, and tune into our time together. The song is usually charged with positive tones, a desire to move and heal any emotional or physical hurdles from the previous days.
The actual greeting with a smile, getting ready in a grounded position on the mat, and turning off the brain switch - just US.
Symbolic and charged songs then dominate the dynamic half of the class, which can lift any yogi off the ground and allow them to feel confident, assured, and determined.
Finally, the slowed-down tracks designed for relaxation are very important, ending the success we have gained, which reverberates with a smile in our minds in indescribable contentment lying on the mat.
The influence of music on our inner self
Integrating music into yoga can have transformative effects on our inner space.
Let's explain a few benefits...
1. Reduces stress!
A slow and harmonious melody can reduce levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, facilitating a more relaxed state that is so ideal for your practice.
2. Guaranteed to improve your mood!
Uplifting or soothing melodies improve your mood, making practice more enjoyable and emotionally rewarding. Why? Simple! You come to the mat angry or frustrated and go home feeling reborn and smiling.
3. It causes a spiritual connection!
Certain types of music, especially those with mantras or specific frequencies such as binaural beats, can increase spiritual awareness and lead to experiences of transcendence or connection to the Universe.
Yes, melodies are like strings through which a connection to a higher cosmic power is made and they point you subconsciously in the direction of trouble at the crossroads of life.
My experience and feelings...
Since my own practice, the days of incorporating music into my dynamic yoga classes have changed significantly.
My movements, guided by rhythms and beats, are accompanied by a certain fluidity and grace.
For example, playing the singing Tibetan bowls during Shavasana brings a deep sense of peace that is almost like floating.
Similarly, vigorous beats during the energetic flow of Vinyasa can feel empowering, like dancing in the postures.
Tips for incorporating music into your yoga practice
1. Choose appropriately!
Your choice of yoga should align with the type of yoga you practice.
Quiet ambient sounds may be best for Yin or Restorative Yoga, while anything rhythmic may be more appropriate for Vinyasa or Ashtanga.
2. Volume control
Make sure the music is not too loud; it should support your breathing and concentration, not overpower.
3. Experiment!
Feel free to try different genres and instruments.
Sometimes unexpected choices, such as jazz or acoustic guitar, can bring a new perspective to your practice.
4. Observe the effects!
Pay attention to how different types of music affect your mood, thoughts, and energy level.
This awareness will help you fine-tune your decisions to what helps you improve your practice.
Music in yoga has the potential to open our hearts and minds and pave the way to a balanced state of equanimity.
Whatever music you choose, it must resonate with your soul. And how do you know?
You will feel "dizzy" with joy, you will experience goosebumps all over your body right down to your hair, and you will smile and dance at the same time in your mind. You'll be safe and feel like you're standing at the top of a mountain with the whole world at your fingertips.
Try it and observe the transformation on your way to greater balance.
How does music affect you in your practice? Do you need advice on a specific playlist or inspiration? Do you prefer a more quiet practice? And why do you prefer it?
Let me know your thoughts in the comments...
