In the busy modern world, more and more people are exploring meditation as a way to relax and calm the mind. Music can play a huge role in successful meditation, but knowing exactly which music to choose and how to use music to meditate can be difficult. Read on to find out how to incorporate music into your meditation program.

1 – How to choose music for meditation

Music can help you relax into a deep state of peace. It’s essential, therefore, that you select music that will encourage you to unwind and let go of any worries you might have. A song with a slow rhythm and quiet vocals is ideal. Don’t choose a song which is fast and frantic, and don’t pick a song which makes you feel sad or has too many personal memories. You need to remain positive through your meditation, otherwise you won’t receive the full benefits. If you are struggling to find something suitable, why not pick a relaxing track from a classical album? You could even buy an album containing music specifically designed for meditation.

2 – How to use music to help you meditate

Before you turn on your chosen music, it’s a good idea to spend a few minutes silently preparing for your meditation session. Find somewhere comfortable to sit or lie down and take the time to empty your mind by focusing on your breathing. Take long, slow breaths and count down in your mind from fifty. Take as long as you need to really let go.

When you are ready, turn on your music and return to your comfortable position. Then close your eyes and focus all your attention on the music. Nothing else exists but the beautiful sounds that you can hear. You should get a feeling that the music is washing over you and helping to empty your mind. It could take a little bit of practice to reach this feeling, but that’s completely normal. You will know when you are there.

Your mind will wander during your meditation session, which is to be expected – when this happens, simply observe your thoughts without judgment and bring them back to the music.

Once you become used to the process of meditating with music you will feel as if nothing exists except you and the sounds. There is no greater experience than this.

3 –Taking it one step further

If you are looking for a yet deeper meditative experience, music can take you there. Before following the advice in this step, make sure you are comfortable with step two above.

You will notice during your meditation that the music you listen to is made up of different layers of sound. For example, there may be a clear melody which you recognize. Then there will be chords which underpin this melody and help take the music forwards. Finally, you may hear a bass line or even a beat which supports the whole song. Try to pick out each separate element of the music and focus your attention on that element for as long as you can. Then go back and listen to the music again and find a different element to focus on. This is a fantastic way of bringing your thoughts into the present moment and training your mind to focus on something incredibly specific. Repeat this step as often as you need to.

After you have gone through this process, listen once again to the music – your mind will now be so familiar with the different layers that you will simultaneously experience the music as a whole and the sum of its parts. This is advanced meditation at its most powerful and will give you a totally new perspective on many aspects of life.

Following these simple tips can help you introduce music into your meditation routine and take you to new levels of peace and tranquility. There is nothing more special than allowing the music you love to help you unwind and bring you into the present moment.