Meet your facilitator: Yasunari
A London-born Penangite, Yasunari holds a degree in fashion design, but his real interests lie in exploring the natural universe through various creative disciplines. He has produced music albums, films and documentaries, fabricated didgeridoos, created murals, designed jewellery, posters, book covers and even BMX bicycles. Some of his art and film work has appeared in productions for the Discovery Channel and mainstream cinema. After being drawn to the sounds of the didgeridoo while in Australia some 20 years ago, he has been making and playing the unique instrument, including performances at the Georgetown Festival in 2011, '14, '15, '17 and '18. Other notable appearances include playing as part of a quartet at the Georgetown Literary Festival in 2016 and The Malaysian Bar Council in 2021.
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Benefits associated with the didgeridoo:
Health benefits
Playing the didgeridoo offers several potential health benefits, including improved respiratory function, reduced snoring and sleep apnea symptoms, and enhanced relaxation and well-being.
Respiratory Health:
• Improved Lung Capacity:
Playing the didgeridoo requires controlled breathing and diaphragmatic breathing, which can help increase lung capacity and improve overall respiratory function.
• Strengthened Respiratory Muscles:
The act of playing strengthens the muscles involved in breathing, including the diaphragm, larynx, and upper airway muscles.
• Reduced Snoring and Sleep Apnea:
Studies suggest that didgeridoo playing can help reduce snoring and improve symptoms of sleep apnea by strengthening the upper airway muscles.
• Asthma Management: Some individuals with asthma have reported that playing the didgeridoo helps them manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.
Mental and Emotional Well-being:
• Relaxation and Meditation:
The rhythmic and meditative nature of playing the didgeridoo can promote relaxation and reduce stress.
• Improved Mood:
Some studies suggest that playing the didgeridoo can lead to an increased feeling of relaxation and a general improvement in mood.
• Increased Awareness of Breath:
Playing the didgeridoo requires conscious control of breath, which can help individuals become more aware of their breath and body.
Other Potential Benefits:
• Enhanced Speech Clarity:
Playing the didgeridoo can help improve breath control, which can also lead to improved speech clarity.
• Physical Strength:
The didgeridoo is a physical instrument that engages your entire body, including your lungs, diaphragm, larynx, and sinuses.