In the Western world, meditation has become a popular way to relieve stress, enjoy the present moment and develop spiritual wisdom. While some meditation practitioners prefer to contemplate in silence, others use music as part of their daily meditations. According to Sri Chinmoy, soulful music has the power to transport you to higher consciousness. If silent meditations sounds like an uncomfortable proposition, music can be a valuable tool to help you along your path to self-awareness.
Purpose
Meditation music is meant to enhance the meditative experience, rather than detract from it. It provides an auditory backdrop that can allow you to let go of external awareness and "mind chatter." According to Madonna Gauding, author of "The Meditation Bible," you should start your music selection well before you begin your meditation, to give your mind a chance to let go of the day's stresses and worries. Music can also help beginners become comfortable with the practice of meditation.
Benefits
Many beginners find it difficult to let go of conscious awareness. Their minds drift to external stimuli and inner thoughts, which prevents meaningful meditation. If you are just beginning to learn the art of meditation, music can help you feel less intimidated. Your mind can focus on the rhythms and sounds, which can lull you out of conscious awareness and into a meditative state. It provides a mental "anchor" that can improve your inner focus.
Music can also promote relaxation, according to Gauding. Soothing sounds and soft rhythms can ease muscle tension, as well as quiet the mind. Physical relaxation sets the stage for productive meditation.
Recall
Some meditation practitioners use music as a "recall" tool. This means that, by repeatedly listening to a particular music recording before or during meditation, you can enter a meditative state more quickly and easily. The music provides a cue that tells the mind it is time to meditate. Gauding suggests starting your preferred recording and closing your eyes for a few minutes before assuming a meditation posture. This can help you get the most out of your meditation time.
Types
Several types of meditation music are available. Some, such as the music of R. Carlos Nakai, utilize both vocals and instruments, while other artists, such as Kitaro, focus solely on instrumental music. You can also find meditation music that integrates instruments with the sounds of nature, such as raindrops, birds or ocean breezes.
Guided Imagery With Music
Guided imagery recordings feature a narrator who talks you through your meditation by describing scenery and directing you to "see" the scenes unfold in your mind, as if you were watching a movie. These recordings sometimes include music to help calm your mind and allow you to focus on the narrator's words. This music is typically ambient, meaning that it does not have a structured beat or rhythm.
References
- Sri Chinmoy: Music and Meditation
- "The Meditation Bible"; Madonna Gauding; 2005
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