What MUSIC Should You Play During Your Yoga Class?
Music can be a valuable tool in your classes which can complement and enrich your class intention and your student’s practice.
Numerous studies have shown that music has a profound effect on our brain and body, influencing our mood, heart rate, vibrational frequency and brainwave patterns.
The role of music during your class is significant, yet at the same time, doesn’t need to be overthought.
Students will remember how you made them feel…
Your students are not attending your class for the music; rather, they come for your guidance; so they can step off their mat feeling grounded and centred, with a deeper connection to their inner self.
Make your teaching the focus point - the words that you speak and the space that you hold.
The intention you infuse into your practice is what truly leaves a lasting impression.
At the end of your class, it's not your creative sequences or fancy playlists that students will remember, but rather the emotional impact of your teaching.
They will remember how you made them feel.
Timing…
Be mindful of the timing of your music.
When students arrive and settle onto their mat for meditation before class begins, you may like soft background music playing or sound frequency.
As the class begins and you move through meditation and breathwork, soft music will allow students to relax into their bodies and the space.
If you’re teaching a vinyasa class, then your music can begin to pick up in tempo alongside your movement.
The rhythm of the music may mirror the rhythm of your breath, creating a seamless flow of movement and mindfulness.
Popular Songs…
Pop songs that you hear on the radio may be catchy and fun, but can be distracting.
If it’s a song with lyrics, then students may be focusing more on the song and less about turning inward and tuning into their body.
Pop music may also cause people to judge whether they like or dislike a particular song.
The more you play pop/modern music, the more you take yoga away from its roots and the ability of the practice to withdraw you from external distractions to bring you back home to yourself.
It’s great that modern yoga enables yoga to reach people today all over the world, but we should stay mindful of the purpose of yoga, to unite us to our inner self and conscious awareness; free from external distraction.
Sound frequency...
Tuning into sound and music at specific frequencies influences how energy flows through you and the vibration of cells within your body.
Some frequencies induce feelings of calmness, tranquillity, and reduced anxiety.
Other frequencies such as between 14-30Hz support brain health, and enhance focus, cognitive function, and memory.
432Hz…
The 432Hz frequency echoes the Earth's vibration and natural rhythm which resonates with the vibration within our own bodies.
This helps us to biologically reconnect to the vibration of the earth.
In this state, your body systems can function in harmony and return to homeostasis.
The spiritual significance of 432Hz can be recognised through its connection to the number 9.
4 + 3 + 2 = 9
Within yoga and Ancient Indian traditions, the number nine symbolises spiritual awakening through the Nine Paths of Bhakti (Devotion). This represents the journey towards wholeness and enlightenment.
Studies have demonstrated that listening to sounds at 432Hz can have a soothing impact on your brain and nervous system.
Your brain neurologically responds to the harmonic frequencies, aiding in deep relaxation, the release of emotional and energetic blockages, cellular rejuvenation and profound inner healing.
It’s important to choose music that supports our practice without overpowering it.
Whether it's the soothing sounds of nature, the gentle hum of crystal bowls, hand pans or sound frequency, choose music that enhances the energy of your space and invites your students to let go and dive deep into their practice.
