Music can be an aid in meditation. While we typically think of meditation as quiet, sitting cross-legged, the use of sound with meditation is written in the ancient texts. It is referred to as Nada Yoga, the yoga of sound. It is utilizing sound to harmonize the body and align one's energy with its natural vibration.
Why is music beneficial in general but also in meditation?
Music can actually lower your body’s levels of cortisol, your fight or flight response hormone to danger. When danger, stress, life challenges appear, this hormone goes into action. Given our modern way of living, many of us are stressing this hormone more than we need to. Regulating this hormone can have a hugely positive effect on the body.
Music can help focus the mind on getting into a relaxing state, and is helpful in lessening other distractions around us. For instance, if you find yourself in a busy place like an airport or full household, music aids in draining out these distractions.
Music andYour Brain
"According to researchers, listening to music can alter brainwave speed, producing brain activity that has a therapeutic effect on the mind and body." [source]
Slow rhythmic music can alter brain activity and help create a calm, relaxing and meditative state.
What music is best for meditation?
Soft relaxing music with no words can be ideal music to begin with. Here are a few options to consider:
Nature Sounds
Head to the forest or tune in at home by listening to the sounds of nature. Waterfalls, creeks, birds chirping, a rain forest - choosing a sound that is soothing for you and not distracting. If you have been dreaming about going to a rainforest in Costa Rica, picking a rain forest could be good or distracting if you might find yourself lost in thought of what you would do on holiday.
Nature sounds to listen to at home.
Chants (Vedic or Gregorian)
Chanting is reciting and repeating word, phrase, script in a monotonous tone, making a melodic sound with the voice.
Vedic chants are hymns from the ancient scriptures of Hinduism, the Vedas. Dating back 3,000 years, Vedic chants are considered the world's oldest continuous vocal tradition.
Gregorian chants began during the Middle Ages and are most chants are derived from the Latin Bible. “Gregorian” refers to Pope Gregory I, who was head of the Catholic Church during this time.
Instrumental Music
Flutes, gongs, singing bowls, drums, chimes and string instruments comprise many instrumental, meditative music.
Sounds Baths are becoming increasingly popular. Performed in a venue, musicians play an array of these instruments to create a calming and healing ambient.
Check out this instrumental music for your next meditation.
Another nice option for meditation.
Meditating with Music
1. Select your music. Have fun choosing a style of music that resinates with you.
2. Find a comfortable place to meditate. This can be seated in a comfortable chair or on a floor pillow. Another option is to be in nature with headphones, standing with a focused gaze on an element in nature like water or finding a log to sit quietly upon.
3. Use a timer. At times it is helpful not to have to think whether you have meditated long enough or too long. Use a soft sound alarm on your watch or device.
4. See how you feel. After your meditation, take a moment to check in with yourself. How do you feel? Did the music you chose help you focus?
Photo Credit: Photo by Adrian Korte