Curious how to meditate with music? Read on for some easy tips on how to make the most of your meditative practice.
Meditation music is thoughtfully composed sonic experiences created to aid in relaxation, concentration, and active meditation. From soothing vocals and nature sounds, to exotic instruments with world rhythms and binaural beats, to electronic and acoustic instrumental melodies alike, meditation music soothes the listener’s physical body, helping to move from frenetic beta brainwaves to more conscious and centered alpha brainwaves.
Some meditation music compositions incorporate binaural beats. Binaural beats are two slightly differently-tuned frequencies played simultaneously, one in each ear, to create a third perceived by the brain as its own “beat” pattern. Binaural beats are known to reduce anxiety and nurture relaxation.
Meditation music used during meditation or relaxation practices creates a more peaceful atmosphere, blocks out distracting sounds in the environment providing a focal point for the mind. Listening to meditation music regularly has been shown to reduce stress, improve concentration, and deepen the listener’s meditation practice.
The thoughtfully-constructed repetition of rhythmic patterns and hypnotic melodies of meditation music can help create a tranquil environment and shift the brain towards slower alpha brainwaves, providing moments of insight and clarity. Alpha brainwaves link to physical relaxation, increased focus and concentration, enhanced learning and memory, heightened creativity, elevated moods, and are the precursors of deep, restorative sleep.
Want to make the most of your meditation music listening experience?
4 quick tips to learn how to meditate with music:
1. Find a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed, whether it’s a secluded outdoor space, a quiet corner of your home, or even a remote park bench.
2. Set an intention for your practice. Your intention could be a general feeling you wish to cultivate (like, ‘stillness’ or ‘peace’), a specific goal you seek to accomplish, or simply a broad desire to relax and let go.
3. Focus on your breath, allowing your mind to relax into the music. Try Charleene’s favorite pranayama (breathing exercise) of alternate nostril breathing to quickly and effortlessly bring mental and physical stillness.
4. Use headphones to get the full benefits of binaural beats with the added benefit of obscuring environmental noise. Dive into a more immersive sonic world!
If your mind begins to wander, gently guide your attention back to the music. Find an element in the music that captivates you, then follow it through the entire piece.
Beyond meditation, regularly listening to meditation music can help to promote a sense of well-being and balance, reducing feelings of stress and promoting a more positive outlook on life.
Listen to my meditation music here on my website or on Insight Timer.
