Sometimes in a LLiV Power Yoga class things can get a bit noisy. And yes, it can seem a bit weird if you’re new to yoga, or more familiar with the type of studios where the yoga practice is silent.

But trust me. There’s a very good reason for it!

Moaning.
Sighing.
Lip flutters.
Roaring it out with Lion’s Breath.

They all have a purpose, and that’s to help you let go of mental and emotional tension, and release stress from your body.

Here’s What Making Noise in Yoga Does

In modern life we’re very contained. We live in smaller spaces and are restricted in how much physical space we can take up - think silent rush hour tube journey crushed up against 5 other people. At work and culturally, we’re quiet. Making noise is often frowned upon. 

So we lose our opportunity to let stuff out. 

Think of yourself as a big balloon. Throughout your day your balloon is getting filled with negative news, sniping comments from colleagues, angry vibes from commuters, friction with your partner, and God forbid, no-one liking your Facebook post!... The list is endless. 

With every ounce of stress, negativity and friction, your balloon is getting more full of feelings of anger, annoyance, rejection, resentment, frustration, overwhelm… and the pressure is building. And yes, it can get to bursting point, where you feel like you’re going to scream, cry or loose your shitake.

And guess what - ladies - our natural tendancy is to take on other people's problems too. So if there are challenges and drama in your family and circle of friends, add in an additional extra portion of pressure.

As human beings, we have a tendancy to numb this pressure by zoning out, with a regular glass of wine (or more) to wind down, drugs (recreational and prescription), or even violence towards ourselves or others. Or, we just live in a permanent state of high internal pressure, with a corresponding feeling that we could blow at any moment.

But there’s a better and healthier way, and that’s to let some of the pressure out regularly, and clear some space in your balloon. 

Release Some Stress

Making noise is a very primal way of letting go of stress. With every moan or groan you’re releasing some pressure – literally letting some of the steam out. 

These types of noise also specifically stimulate the part of your brain that assesses whether you’re safe or not. When this is stimulated it in turn tells the body it’s OK to relax - that it’s OK to let your guard down, and let some of the stress and tension go – physically and mentally.

Moaning, sighing, groaning and roaring is literally a relief for your body and nervous system, and it loves it. Which is why it feels so good if you allow yourself to let go, play along and make some noise alongside the yoga poses. 

So, join in. Liberate your self. Find some freedom from being so contained, release the pressure and switch on the relaxation. 

Moan, sigh and roar it out, and have some fun in the process.

If you're interested in knowing why we do the things we do in a LLiV Yoga class, check out these blogs:

Why we say Namaste in yoga

What Makes LLiV Yoga Different

Why we activate our feet in yoga

Why there's such an emphasis on breathing in yoga

Why we Om in Yoga

Be more of who you are...

Jxx