music or no music - a common refrain
i remember my professor in experimental psych reminding me: every time you introduce a new variable, you f&#k with the outcome. i believe those to be his exact words, as well.
its true.
so then, why do some teachers (me included) play music during yoga classes?
first, let me state - i am a student who enjoys music while i practice AND i am a student who enjoys practicing simply to the music of my breath and nothing else. therefore i understand both sides of the disc, so to speak.
music - when used effectively - can enhance a yoga practice by plucking at the emotional strings within our soul. music can add excitement, relaxation, rhythm, and even reflection, and when thoughtfully added, will intensify and compliment various asana.
music can also kill a practice, as it can be distracting, overwhelming, and create an artificially induced mood.
those of you who are big into MBPT - and score big on the "p" scale - know full well where i am going with this . . . .
music during yoga is neither good nor bad - and its all about the intention behind its use.
i am fairly creative, energetic, and lively person . . . though sometimes lack the structure, attention, and concentration that drives accomplishment. on days of the week, or days in my life, that call for me to be a bit more earnest and effective - it is a silent practice that keeps me grounded.
but there are days where my inventive and carefree spirit begs to be unleashed. fridays, for example! these are the practices that awaken my inspiration and imagination.
therefore, no matter what you decide - music with melody or the melody of breath - make sure you do so not out of an unhealthy attachment to one way or the other, but because of reasons that intentionally create a balance in your practice . . . and in your life.
the song, details in the fabric by jason mraz, spoke to me. below is a musical yoga video . . . hope you enjoy viewing/listening as much as i did in creating!
its true.
so then, why do some teachers (me included) play music during yoga classes?
first, let me state - i am a student who enjoys music while i practice AND i am a student who enjoys practicing simply to the music of my breath and nothing else. therefore i understand both sides of the disc, so to speak.
music - when used effectively - can enhance a yoga practice by plucking at the emotional strings within our soul. music can add excitement, relaxation, rhythm, and even reflection, and when thoughtfully added, will intensify and compliment various asana.
music can also kill a practice, as it can be distracting, overwhelming, and create an artificially induced mood.
those of you who are big into MBPT - and score big on the "p" scale - know full well where i am going with this . . . .
music during yoga is neither good nor bad - and its all about the intention behind its use.
i am fairly creative, energetic, and lively person . . . though sometimes lack the structure, attention, and concentration that drives accomplishment. on days of the week, or days in my life, that call for me to be a bit more earnest and effective - it is a silent practice that keeps me grounded.
but there are days where my inventive and carefree spirit begs to be unleashed. fridays, for example! these are the practices that awaken my inspiration and imagination.
therefore, no matter what you decide - music with melody or the melody of breath - make sure you do so not out of an unhealthy attachment to one way or the other, but because of reasons that intentionally create a balance in your practice . . . and in your life.
the song, details in the fabric by jason mraz, spoke to me. below is a musical yoga video . . . hope you enjoy viewing/listening as much as i did in creating!
http://gallery.me.com/pegmulqueen#100000
Played: 114 | Download | Duration: 00:05:39







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