Most of us who practice yoga know what to expect coming from the iPod speakers in class. A mix of melodic tones, chimes, maybe the sound of crashing waves and chirping birds. And while I love the centrering effects that this music has, I was pleasantly surprised recently when I hit the mat and the teacher took us through an entire class set to the pace of a Mumford and Sons album. It was a bit of a serendipitous moment, in that the same album had been on repeat in my car for the past month. But, I found that the rhythm and energy of the music was mirrored in my practice, and I was overwhelmed with inspiration.
If you’re stuck in a rut with your yoga practice, I strongly encourage you to visit this idea as a way to reignite your passion.
I experimented with some different albums in my home practice, finding that flowing to music that I knew and loved offered another layer of meditation and focus. I was able to bring attention to the present moment like never before, and it was just me, my mat, and the lyrics in my head.
I love albums that tell a story, with each song serving as a different chapter. As a whole, it creates a mood for your practice, but each song allows you to tap into a different emotion. Sometimes, I’ll rearrange the songs in a playlist, starting out with the slow tempos, and building up to flowing rhythms as my practice peaks in movement and power.
I encourage people to try this at home with your favourite albums, and I’ll share with you some of my favorites.
1. Mumford and Sons: Babel
My introduction to “musical yoga” this album is incredibly uniform in it’s style, with the familiar folk/ bluegrass/ rock sound that the band is known for. It offers a wonderful blend of slow introspective songs, with drum heavy jams to match an energized yoga flow.
2. Donovan Frankenreiter
This Jack Johnson style Hawaiian artist’s first album is my eternal summer soundtrack. It can literally transport you to a sandy beach in seconds. This album moves you like a wave through your yoga practice, bringing your mind and body to an incredibly relaxed and idyllic state.
3. The Head and the Heart
A wonderful folk/ pop band that are equal parts angelic female singer with her violin and ascending drum beats, set to lyrics about travelling open roads. Their first album is a coming of age story that will carry you through your practice.
I’m curious to hear if other people try this at home, and if so what albums or playlists are your favourites.
Let’s share some ideas and spread the yoga love!
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