Playlist: From crow pose to savasana

Music is such a big part of yoga. Along with your breath, music helps push you through those difficult poses and aids in your surrender during savasana.

I can't stand those yoga CDs that feature a bunch of generic music. I don't want to hear birds chirping over some lame-ass harp. I want to hear songs I know and love.

When my hot, power yoga class is doing eagle-style crunches, the studio plays load, upbeat electronica music (Edward Maya is a favorite) to carry us through the burn. When we're balancing in dancer's pose, we're listening to something a bit more subdued, such as Adele or Coldplay. And when we reach that final resting pose, we're listening to a song that promotes relaxation.

The other day, my yoga teacher played Ryan Adams' version of "Wonderwall" during savasana. Not only was I blown away because I adore his version of the song, but I was in awe of how well it worked. I was melting into my mat.

I too end my yoga playlist with it. Here's to finding your balance.

"Sweedeedee," Cat Power
"First Day of My Life," Bright Eyes
"Northern Sky," Nick Drake
"I'm In Here," Sia
"Stereo Love," Edward Maya feat. Vika Jigulina
"Trenchtown Rock (Trio Eletrico Remix)," Bob Marley & The Wailers
"Digging Your Scene," Ivy
"Make You Feel My Love," Adele
"Roslyn," Bon Iver & St. Vincent
"Wonderwall," Ryan Adams

Create the above playlist for free on Grooveshark.com.