In the realm of wellness practices like barre, yoga, and restorative classes, the role of music extends beyond mere auditory pleasure. It has the power to elevate the entire experience, enhancing focus, relaxation, and connection. Selecting the right music is an art that enhances the flow of the session, aligning movements with rhythms that resonate with the soul. When trying to create your own at home studio with ‘Ohana online, having access to playlists that will fuel you and nurture you, will get you in the zone and help you feel like you’re in the studio with us.
The Music-Mind-Body Connection
Music possesses a profound ability to influence our emotions, impacting our mental and physical states. When harmoniously chosen, it can guide students through different phases of a class, whether it’s the high-energy sequences of barre, the serenity of yoga, or the deep relaxation of a restorative practices.
“The right music can elevate the intensity of your practice, making even the most challenging movements feel more attainable.”
The Science Behind Music and Your Workout
The marriage of music and exercise isn’t just poetic; it’s backed by science. Research reveals that music has the ability to improve exercise performance in numerous ways. It acts as a distraction, diverting attention from feelings of fatigue, thus allowing for increased endurance. The tempo of music can also synchronize with the rhythm of movements, optimizing efficiency and enhancing coordination.
Furthermore, music triggers the release of dopamine, the brain’s “feel-good” neurotransmitter. This not only boosts mood but also enhances the overall experience of the workout. The right music can elevate the intensity of your practice, making even the most challenging movements feel more attainable.
Barre: Energetic Vibes
For barre classes, lively and rhythmic tunes provide the energy needed to power through intense movements. Upbeat tracks with motivating lyrics can fuel determination and keep the tempo high. Incorporate pop hits or catchy tunes into your playlist, inspiring you to embrace the challenge and push your limits. Try this playlist on Spotify or this one from Apple Music that infuses enthusiasm into every plié and pulse.
Yoga: Melodic Tranquility
In yoga sessions, the music should create an ambiance of serenity, enhancing the connection between breath, movement, and mindfulness, while still building you up for those peak poses. Opt for soothing instrumental tracks, your favorite songs as acoustic tracks, or mix of slow songs that ramp up and slow back down to encourage introspection. Tracks with minimal lyrics, if any, maintain a sense of tranquility, allowing you to dive deeper into your practice. When you’re building your own playlist we suggest using these types of songs at the end when you’re ready to wind down and enter shavasana.
Try this playlist on Spotify or this one from Apple Music that fosters unity between body and mind while keeping you motivated during those harder parts of class.
Restorative: Sublime Relaxation
In restorative classes, the music becomes a vehicle for deep relaxation and rejuvenation. Slow, soothing melodies, nature sounds, and calming instrumental compositions guide you into a state of profound rest. As you melt into restorative poses, the music should support your journey of releasing tension and finding stillness within. Try this playlist on Spotify or this one from Apple Music with tracks that aid in unwinding and creating a soothing ambiance.
Creating the Perfect Playlists
Curating the ideal music for your classes involves a blend of intuition, and your personal preferences. Consider the atmosphere you want to create for your at home class–whether that’s a high energy to make you work hard or place of peaceful rest and you tune in.
Embrace the transformative potential of music in your online fitness classes. Through the rhythm of carefully selected tracks, you’ll enhance the journey of self-discovery, well-being, and holistic growth.
Katie Jackson is an Ohana YTT Graduate and Artist in the Denver Area. She creates artwork and wallpaper that showcases the magic in the ordinary and helps others live a simpler more peaceful life. Get tips + resources to create a calmer life and home with her free slow living library