The Alchemy of Stillness and Sound

Celebrating Yoga & Music – June 21st

By Niranjana Karthigairajan

June 21st is more than just a date — it’s a reminder of how movement and melody can heal, inspire, and unite humanity. Both yoga and music transcend borders, languages, and cultures, offering pathways to physical well-being, mental peace, and emotional joy.

Interestingly, yoga and music share a deep connection. Many yoga sessions incorporate soothing melodies, mantras, and sound healing to enhance relaxation. Similarly, musicians often use yoga to improve focus and creativity.

At this moment of global fractures — when wars rage and divisions deepen — celebrating International Yoga Day and World Music Day (June 21st) becomes not just meaningful, but vital. Yoga and music emerge as universal languages of unity. Yoga teaches us that we all breathe the same air, no matter our nationality, religion, or race. A melody needs no translation; it speaks directly to the soul, uniting all.

As Ravi Shankar, Sitar maestro, wrote in his autobiography Raga Mala (1997): “Music is the ultimate language of emotion, a way to reach the divine. When combined with yoga — the science of inner harmony — it becomes a complete meditation.”

Both yoga and music are therapeutic and work towards activating the parasympathetic system.

Indeed, the paper ‘Music Therapy in the Treatment of Dementia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis’ by Celia Moreno-Morales revealed that intervention with music improves cognitive function in people living with dementia (a neurological condition characterized by deterioration in cognitive, behavioural, social, and emotional functions). Another paper by M.H. Thaut titled ‘Neural Basis of Long-term Musical Memory in Cognitively Impaired Older Persons’ revealed that long-known music activates brain regions minimally affected by Alzheimer’s disease.

Landmark research by Dr J. Thirthalli titled ‘Cortisol and antidepressant effects of yoga’ demonstrated that yoga significantly decreased serum cortisol levels, reducing stress and symptoms of anxiety.

Carnatic music, one of India’s oldest classical traditions, is not just an art form but also a powerful healing tool. Each raaga (melodic framework) is designed to evoke specific emotions and physiological responses, making it a unique sound therapy system. For instance, to name a few, Raaga Hamsadhwani improves memory, Raaga Neelambari promotes deep sleep, and Raaga Anandabhairavi has been associated with pain reduction, particularly in a postoperative setting.

Similarly, each yoga asana influences specific organs, muscles, and energy channels. For instance, to name a few, Bhujangasana (Cobra Pose) strengthens the spine, alleviates lower back pain, and improves posture; Virabhadrasana (Warrior Poses) strengthens legs, knees, and shoulders while improving balance; and Matsyasana (Fish Pose) expands lung capacity and relieves asthma symptoms.

The Twin Pillars of Wellbeing

B.K.S. Iyengar, the renowned Indian Yoga guru, said, “Yoga is like music – the rhythm of the body, the melody of the mind, and the harmony of the soul create the symphony of life.”

Here is how to celebrate the day:

• Morning Flow: Start your day with yoga accompanied by binaural beats or classical ragas to enhance mindfulness.
• Community Events: Join a yoga session in your community or online.
• Share Your Passion: — Post your favourite yoga pose or a musical performance with hashtags #InternationalYogaDay and #WorldMusicDay.

Let the music move your feet, let yoga root you deep. May the synergy of sound and stillness bring in peace! Happy International Yoga Day and World Music Day!!

Mauritius Times ePaper Friday 20 June 2025