Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between Music as Meditation versus other Meditation workshops?
Most Meditation uses attention to the breath and the body as the object of mindfulness. In this workshop we will deepen the practice by using our inherent vocalism and the resulting resonance in the body as the object of mindfulness. This workshop will be warmly supported by community singing and easy instruction on healthy vocalism. Basic present time awareness exercises will expand to include the sound of the voice, our reactions an opinions of our own voices, and meditations which are entirely vocally driven.
2. What kind of benefits will I get from meditating?
Research into the effects of Meditation have shown it to create powerful, measurable changes in the physiology. Meditators have reported experiencing release of stress, more energy, clearer thinking, better health, and improved personal relationships. Other notable benefits of meditation include:
• Improved memory, energy, creativity, intelligence
• Relief from depression and anxiety
• Relief from migraines, headaches and asthma
• Relief from insomnia and other sleeping disorders
• Faster reaction times
• Reduced cholesterol levels
• Relief from fatigue
• Stronger immune system
• Reduced risk of heart disease
• Normalization of blood pressure
• Improved sports performance
• Reduction of biological aging
• Reduced addictive behaviors
• Normalization of weight
3. Should I still come if I can't sing?
ABSOLUTELY! This is not about creating a beautiful tone or becoming an accomplished singer, it’s about using the voice as a tool to ground yourself in your body and your community.
4. How long is the workshop?
Roughly an hour and a half.
5. What should I bring with me to the workshop?
Water and an open mind.
6. How many people will be there?
Depends entirely on the workshop. Could be as few as 6 and as many as 15
7. What is the average donation for the workshop?
The recommended donation is $25.
8. Does age matter?
As long as your child is able to sit still for short periods of meditation, they are absolutely welcome.
9. I'm very shy, will that matter?
No, you are welcome to come even if you’re shy. No one will ask you to sing a solo. If you prefer not to sing at first that’s alright, and you can use this experience as an aural meditation instead. Stay non-judgmental of yourself and who knows, you might end up singing too.
10. What is the format for the workshop?
Generally the first part of the workshop alternates periods of meditation, discussion of people’s experiences and observations and explanations of skills to make your meditation more mindful. The second part introduces the vocal element by encouraging community warm-ups, some aural exercises and meditations, and finally singing as a part of a specific meditative exercise. Depending on the group, the workshop can move on to part singing and rounds to deepen the mindfulness practice.
11. Do you offer this workshop outside of the Santa Monica Conservatory of Music?
Yes, this workshop can be run as a corporate or social team-building exercise, adjusted as a classroom course, or be designed to fit whatever group you’d like to include. It is also available in one-on-one sessions. Contact Mollie for more details
