Home
/
Esoteric spirituality
/
Spiritual awakening
/

Teaching without music: the debate over silence in class

Silence vs Sound | Teachers Debate Music in Yoga Classes

By

Sophia Wright

May 30, 2025, 08:57 AM

Edited By

Ethan Blake

Updated

May 30, 2025, 09:53 PM

2 minutes of reading

Instructor leading a yoga class without music, focusing on student relaxation and mindfulness
popular

A heated online discussion among instructors over music in yoga classes has escalated. Some argue for silence to enhance focus, while others claim music energizes students during practice.

The Core of the Clash

This evolving debate highlights a significant divide among teachers. One instructor expressed frustration, stating, "I teach with no music because I believe a silent environment helps my students focus better on their practice." In contrast, others tout the benefits of music.

Mixed Views

Instructors are sharing starkly different opinions:

  • One teacher mentioned, "Silence allows my students to truly connect with their practice."

  • On the other hand, another teacher said, "Music brings energy to my classes! It keeps students engaged throughout the flow."

Adding to the discussion, several instructors highlighted the use of playlists tailored to different class vibes. A teacher mentioned, "I play music and spend hours creating playlists that enhance the vibe of class, from calming tones to energetic tracks during power flows." This shows a more nuanced approach to incorporating music.

Navigating the Teaching Styles

Interestingly, the sentiments regarding music shed light on personal teaching styles. One instructor noted, "Show up as your authentic self. Thatโ€™s the best you can do for your students." This emphasizes the need for individual choices. Some teachers decide to play music only in distracting environments, opting for quiet ambient sounds instead. As one put it, "I only play music in settings with external distractions. It's very subtle."

In contrast, a power yoga instructor shared insights about her playlists:

"The latest power yoga playlist includes fresh music, and the students seem to love the ambiance or they wouldnโ€™t come back." Itโ€™s evident that creating a suitable environment is key for many.

Key Themes from the Ongoing Debate

  • Silence vs Sound: Some instructors favor silence for concentration while others view music as essential for energy.

  • Personal Approach is Key: Teachers stress the value of their unique teaching styles.

  • Context Matters: The choice to use music often depends on class atmosphere and student preferences.

Takeaways

  • ๐Ÿ”‡ Silence can enhance focus in a classroom setting.

  • ๐ŸŽถ For some, music is essential for maintaining engagement.

  • โœจ Personal teaching methods are crucial for instructorsโ€™ success.

As the debate endures, the question lingers: Should yoga classes emphasize silence or embrace music? This conversation reflects a growing recognition of individual teaching methods, urging teachers to find the best practices for themselves and their students.