Yoga & Music: Does Music Belong In Our Yoga Class...

I often ponder: Is it appropriate to practice yoga with music, or does it compromise the sacredness and meditative essence of the practice? Can music potentially reduce yoga from a profound, spiritual journey to a mere exercise session that relies on external stimuli to engage participants?

During my initial years of teaching yoga, I seldom incorporated music into my asana sessions. My aim was to impart the authentic essence of yoga, a pure form that would enable students to delve into deeper levels of consciousness. I believed that this depth could only be attained in silence, devoid of external distractions. However, with time, I have become more flexible in my approach. The path of yoga seems to encourage a sense of letting go, a release from fixed ideologies towards a broader perspective. As my practice has evolved, I have moved away from a strict mindset. Sometimes, what feels appropriate at one point may not resonate at another. Adapting and evolving is not a sign of failure, but rather a natural part of growth.

Before delving into the debate on whether yoga should be accompanied by music, it is essential to address the flaw in the very question — the term "should." The concept of right or wrong can be limiting, and yoga often guides us to transcend such dualities. Therefore, what follows is my current perspective, subject to further evolution.

Selection of Music

If I opt to incorporate music, the key lies in choosing the appropriate music. Not all music is conducive to a yoga practice. Some may prove distracting or lead to an externalized experience, diverting attention from the internal journey. I avoid music with lyrics, except for simple, mantra-based melodies. For instance, Sanskrit mantras can impart a calming, grounding effect to a class. I also steer clear of overly upbeat or high-energy tracks, as they can detract from the reflective, introspective nature of yoga.

The music should facilitate an internalizing effect, rather than dominating the class ambiance. It should be subtle enough to blend harmoniously with the practitioner's experience, serving as an anchor without overshadowing the nuanced layers of the physical, mental, and emotional practice. If music is utilized, it should not be so loud or intrusive that it hinders students from experiencing the profound, subtle effects of their practice. A helpful approach is to introduce music initially and gradually fade it out towards the end of the class. This transition can guide the class from an external level of awareness to a more subtle one.

Purpose of the Music

The intention behind incorporating music holds significance. Music can be a potent tool if it aids students in feeling relaxed and at ease, crucial for delving deeper into internal awareness. Self-consciousness can often impede this journey. Music can act as a bridge, reducing practitioners' awareness of others and fostering a heightened focus on their personal experience.

For certain individuals, particularly beginners or those grappling with a restless mind, focusing on the mind directly may not always be the most beneficial approach initially. While yoga aims to observe and be present with the mind's activities, for some, especially in the initial stages or when dealing with negative thought patterns, befriending the mind may not be an immediate goal. In such cases, gentle music can offer an easier entry point into the practice, serving as a tool to guide them towards the ultimate objective of becoming an observer of their thoughts.

Music also possesses the ability to foster a sense of unity — a fundamental principle of yoga. When the music is serene and harmonious, it aids in aligning the body and mind with that energy, promoting a collective mood within the class. As everyone hears the same sounds, an individual experiencing deeper peace can positively influence those around them. This interconnectedness serves as a reminder that we are not isolated entities; we impact one another, both consciously and subconsciously, whether or not we are aware of it.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the decision to practice yoga with or without music depends on the group's experience level and the class theme. Silence may sometimes be the most effective route to delve deeper into the practice, particularly in advanced classes or when the theme calls for intense internal focus. Nonetheless, I remain convinced that music offers numerous benefits. If it enhances the practice's enjoyment and encourages practitioners to stay committed to their journey, it becomes a valuable tool in sustaining inspiration and deepening the practice.

In essence, yoga can be practiced both with and without music, with each approach holding its place depending on what best serves the practitioner in the moment. The key is to remain receptive to what feels appropriate at the present time, relinquishing rigid rules and embracing the adaptability that yoga instills in us.