A SONIC TOUR OF
THE SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTE'S 
YOGA: THE ART OF TRANSFORMATION EXHIBIT

​Sound is everywhere in this stunning art exhibit tracing the history of hatha yoga — you just need to know what to look for to hear it. See how many sonic signs you can find.  Get some tips below!

Sound is easy to see, when you know what to look for!

Malas.  A tool for chanting.  (Note: just because a yogis mouth is closed — doesn't mean he is not chanting —  mentally.)
Conch Shell.  Often held by Vishnu, the conch is a symbol of the primordial sound.
Ram’s Horn. Used to sound.
Damaru Drum Played by Siva, the sounds referred to as Maheshvara Sutra Bija Mantras, the building blocks of the Sanskrit language.
Whistling goddess.  Credited as simply as a yogini, she might easily be  the goddess Ambe, “The One Who Sounds”  
Vina.  A string instrument held by Saraswati — goddess of Sound and Music — sometimes by Siva and yogis, as well. Sonic power.  
Chant emanating from the mouth.  See a puff of breath coming out of Siva’s mouth? Thought to be a depiction of him chanting.
Musical instruments.  Countless depictions of gods, goddesses, yogis, yoginis, royalty and common folk playing instruments, often with other yogis nearby engaging in other practices.