Yoga, a system of mental and physical exercise, includes meditation techniques as part of its practice. Various types of music and chants can complement yoga and meditation practice, which may benefit health. Listening to music can reduce pain, lower blood pressure and alleviate depression symptoms. Select types of music that suit your personal preferences to create an atmosphere conducive to your yoga and meditation practice.
History
Yoga, which was created more than 5,000 years ago, involves three main structures, including breathing practices, exercise and meditation. Early meditation history includes the use of meditation practices in primitive hunter-gatherer societies. The practice of yoga and meditation has evolved into a personalized system that can incorporate the use of music to enhance relaxation and stress relief.
Types
Various types of music can accompany your mediation and yoga practice. Some options include music featuring nature sounds and music with spiritual lyrics that resonate with your personal beliefs system. Songs with Tibetan bells and ocean waves may accompany slow yoga movements, while more upbeat, stimulating music may accompany high-energy power yoga practices. Chanting, which involves using words or syllables in a repetitive monotonous manner, is integral to many yoga practices and may aid emotional and physical healing, according to "Yoga Journal" magazine.
Function
Music features numerous practical functions, such as a healing aid and pain relief for hospital and hospice patients, and as treatment for veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder. Music also improves IQ levels and decreases anxiety. Using calm, sedative music increases overall relaxation. Alternating the type of music you select can help to change the mood and direction of your yoga and meditation practice.
Benefits
Slow, quiet music, such as music that features harps, aids relaxation and decreases anxiety. It may also motivate and encourage you when working through difficult exercises. Yoga, used in conjunction with meditation and peaceful music, relieves stress, aids pain management and lowers blood pressure. Try adding yoga and meditation music to your practice to help combat the everyday hum of noises and positively impact your sympathetic nervous system.
Considerations
Not all yoga and meditation practitioners agree with adding music to yoga practice. Some practitioners and instructors view music as a distraction that may thwart focus and concentration in yoga and meditation. Consider the benefits of relaxing yoga and meditation music, and incorporate it into your practice if you foresee personal benefits. Select music that suits your yoga style, and create a play list that flows together seamlessly to avoid disrupting your yoga and meditation practice.
References
- American Cancer Society: Music Therapy
- American Yoga Association: General Yoga Information
- University of Florida: From East to West
- "Yoga Journal" magazine: Can You Say Om Namah Shivaya?
- Florida State University: The Effect of Music Relaxation Techniques
- United States Department of Veterans Affairs: Tackling Injuries with Meditation
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