Category Archives: Yoga Philosophy

Songs of Yoga: Kirtan 101

The word Yoga means Union. By the very nature of the word, Yoga, refers to a state of Being that is one of Unity. It refers to the various practices that guide us into this blissful experience of Being in Oneness.

The ultimate goal of this ancient wisdom tradition called Yoga, is to experience Absolute Union with our own True Self.

You may be familiar with Yogic practices such as Poses (Asana), Meditation (Dhyana,) Breath Control (Pranayama.) These are all a part of a specific self-disciplinary path of yoga called Raja Yoga, in which one uses the breath, the body and mind to experience higher states of awareness, the state of Yoga – Absolute Unity.

But Raja Yoga is not the only way… did you know there are actually three other traditional paths of yoga designed to guide the practitioner to the state of Yoga – or Liberation?

In totally, the four paths of yoga include: Karma Yoga, the path of selfless service, Bhakthi Yoga, the path of love & devotion, Raja Yoga, the familiar path of self-discipline, and Jnana Yoga, the path of wisdom or self-inquiry.

Less known in western circles of yoga is the path of Bhakthi – the sweet path of love!

That’s right… Love can actually be your practice. There are many common ways to practice this beautiful path of yoga including dance, ritual, ceremony, worship, pilgrimage, prayer, singing and more.

Below, we’ll teach you one of our favourite practices of Bhakthi Yoga that has the ability to guide the yogi Home with ease, joy and of course… Love!

WHAT IS KIRTAN?

Kirtan is a simple, yet powerful spiritual practice of Bhakthi Yoga– the yoga of the Heart. Bhakthi is the “Yoga of Love and Devotion,” a deeply heart-opening experience, Bhakti is the cultivation of unconditional spiritual love.

Kirtan is considered the song of the soul. It is non-dogmatic and practiced in the Universal language of Love, through the singing of ancient Sanskrit chants, Kirtan is a powerful, effortless and joyous way to connect to your heart and meditate.

Chanting is the celebration and worship of Life and Love. Immersed in the sound, vibration and sensations of the sacred Sanskrit chants, called Mantra, the mind becomes quiet, the soul awakens and the Heart blossoms into Pure Love.

Kirtan is another practice of yoga which helps guide our way back home— to ourselves, to the True Essence of our Being, which is Divine Love. It is a highly effective spiritual practice, Sadhana, which allows us to channel all of our emotional states towards The One of which we are all apart, and to lose ourselves in this Unconditional Love that unites us all.

“Devotional singing is the spontaneous music of the soul. Nobody can resist the inspirational qualities of such music penetrating one’s heart when it is sung with concentration and devotion. Children, sing from the depth of your hearts. Let the heart melt in prayer. The joy of singing the Lord’s name is unique. This Bhajan is for us to pour out all our hearts’ accumulated dirt. Leave aside all shyness and open your heart to God.” — Amritanandamayi Devi

WHY CHANT?

“Chanting is like asanas for the mind & heart” – Krishna Das

Much like how each Yoga Asana (pose,) has unique benefits to open and heal the body, each Sanskrit chant is infused with unique vibrations to open and heal the mind & heart.

These ancient mantras are power medicine that heal and align us from deep within. And much like when a child needs to take medicine, we hide it in some kind of sweet syrup. With chanting, the music is the sweet syrup that the medicine of mantra is infused in, and the silence that follows the chant is the moment we digest the medicine and allow it to heal us.

These ancient chants contain powerful and transformative sounds and vibrations and through singing them with love, we are able to experience a super conscious state of existence— kindled by intense emotion, concentration upon the mantra and immersion into the present moment.

The nature of our True Self is Bliss— and when we call out the various names of the Godly Self that dwells within us, the mind merges into its Bliss. It loses itself in Bliss. It becomes one with the Bliss itself.

These simple melodies invoke a deep state of peace, harmony and tranquility inside us to that help us reconnect with who we really are. Through sacred prayers of intention, gratitude and devotion we unite with the Pure Love that resides within us all.

These ancient Vedic chants are songs of peace and they fill our hearts with love. And when we come together with devotional music and chanting, not only are we attuning ourselves to these positive vibrations of peace and love, but we are rendering a great service to the world. Chanting aids in humanity worldwide in it’s quest for peace and unity. It is a potent remedy for healing and to reconcile the illusion of separation between us. We join together with our voices, hearts and prayers or healing, joy and peace for all beings everywhere.

WHY PRACTICE?

“If we follow the path of devotion, we can enjoy the fruit of bliss from the very beginning, whereas with the other paths, it can be tasted only towards the end. Bhakti is like the jackfruit tree that bears fruit at its very base, while one may have to climb to the top to pluck fruit from other trees.” — Amritanandamayi Devi

Chanting is not some obscure new age musical performance… it is a valuable tool practiced by people from all walks of life from all over the world to help heal their bodies, quiet their minds, open their hearts and invite the sacred into their lives.

The latest discoveries in neuroscience confirm the healing power and benefits of sound, particularly of devotional music.

Below are some benefits of chanting as indicated by both modern science and the great sages and saints of India:

Soothes the nerves & relieves tensions
Balances mind and emotions
Improves overall health and immune system
Improves concentration powers
Supports one’s meditation practice
Reduces negativity in the mind
Purifies the environment and surroundings
Guides us into contentment and contemplation
Purifies the Nadis & Chakras & awakens the Kundalini
Directs emotions towards a positive goal
Melts the heart & fills the mind with purity
Generates harmony, compassion & divine love
Experience God – the Love of your own Divine Nature

TYPES OF PRACTICES & WHAT TO EXPECT IN A PRACTICE?

In the Bhakthi tradition, there are many types of Sangita, or Devotional Music— most commonly known in western circles are the practices known as Kirtan and Bhajan.

Kirtan comes from the Sanskrit root Krit, which means to praise or celebrate.

Kirtan is a chanting practice of union through devotion that encourages the repetion of Sanskrit Mantras or Divine Names to merge into a deep meditation. It is practiced in a call & response format of which the leader, the Kirtan Wallah, calls the mantra chanted and the group responds it back. It is often experienced in a group environment and usually practiced in the ancient and holy language of Sanskrit. It is often an interactive experience of singing and can be very powerful, fun and ecstatic!

Alternatively, Bhajan, which comes from the root word Bhaj, mean sharing.

Bhajan is usually practiced as communal singing in a sing-a-long format. It may be experienced in a group or alone and refers to devotional songs in prayer and hymns to the divine (rather than the repetition of God’s name.) It is often more free form and less structured than a Kirtan and can be practiced in many languages.

Both practices are not so much of a performance or concert, but rather a journey into the Self through deep listening and chanting the various names and aspects of our own Divine Nature.

The main elements of both Kirtan and Bhajan are mantra, music and meditation— but the secret ingredient to a very a powerful practice is your own Bhakthi, love and devotion.

Immersed in the sound, vibrations and sensations of the sacred sounds of the mantras, the mind becomes absorbed into and entrained by these vibrations, and at the end of the chant, there is a blissful silence or meditation to feel and experience the profound benefits of chanting, in which the mind becomes deeply still.

HOW TO PARTICIPATE?

”One can realize God through Kirtan alone. Kirtan is singing of God’s name, with feeling. If one does Sankirtan from the bottom of one’s heart, with full bhava (devotion) and prem (love) even the trees, birds and animals will respond. They will be deeply influenced. Such is the power of Sankirtan. It brings the devotee face to face with God.

The chanting of Sanskrit Kirtan, even when mechanically done, produces certain effects. When done with devotion, and awareness of the meaning, its benefits are immeasurable.” – Swami Sivananda

Chanting is universal—you do not require any previous experience, you don’t need to know the chants ahead of time, you don’t need to be a good singer or feel coordinated with following a rhythm. More important than how it sounds, is how it feels. More valuable than knowing exactly the chants is your love and devotion when you sing them. More important that understanding the meaning of the chants or the practice, is your own Direct Experience.

Bhakthi Yoga isn’t really something you do. Bhakthi is love. So practicing Bhakthi Yoga means falling in love. And this love that we may experience here isn’t new— it isn’t something you attain or achieve or become— because you are already that. But rather, it’s something you remember, something you reconnect to and stoke from deep within.

This love is the love of the Inner Self, which through practice, we can learn to see ourselves reflected in the eyes of all beings we encounter. This is true unconditional spiritual love.

Ultimately, what one puts into this practice is what they receive from it. To the degree of which one may be present, open and expressive is to the degree of which one may experience the profound nature of this practice. This is your practice, so really— anything goes. There is truly no right or wrong way to experiencing this practice!

However, if you’re new to the practice, here is some insight into how you may choose to express yourself through the practice:

+ Sing: Singing is the heart of Kirtan. It’s not about how well you sing or how musical you are, but about how it feels. As long as your practicing with an open-heart, you’re doing it right.

+ Clap or Dance: Allow the chants to move through you and within you. You may feel inspired to clap along to the beat, tap along in your seat or get up and dance! Any physical expression of love & devotion that moves through you goes here.

+ Listen & Receive: In call and response Kirtan, hearing the names of the Divine is equally important as calling it out. When you hear the chant, hear that Divinity residing in your soul and when you call it out, feel that Divinity being expressed.

+ Meditate: Whether your singing aloud, or chanting silently in your own mind, chanting can evoke a deep sense of meditation within. During a practice you’re welcome to close your eyes and meditate – feeling the divine vibrations of sound dancing within and around you.

+ Lose Yourself in Love: Allow the magic and mystery of the chants to carry you within – to your Self, to your Source, to the Universal Love that is your True Nature.

+ Begin & end in blissful silence. Silence is the blank canvas from which the sound of music is painted upon. Beginning and ending in silence gives us a chance to deeply appreciate and experience the art of chanting.

“To gain concentration in this age of materialism, bhajan is easier than meditation. By loud singing, other distracting sounds will be overcome and concentration will be achieved. Bhajan, concentration and meditation, this is the progression. In fact, constant remembrance of God is meditation. Bhajans sung with one-pointedness, will benefit the singer, the listener and also Mother Nature. Such songs will awaken the listeners’ minds.” – Amritananda Mayi Devi

May we all fill our Hearts with Infinite and Eternal Love as the magic of Kirtan carries us within– to our own Self, to our Source, to the Universal Love that is our True Nature and that which unites us All as One.

~
JOIN US FOR…

✨Songs of Yoga: An Evening of Kirtan ✨
Tuesday, June 12: 6 PM – 8 PM

A heart-opening experience of Bhakthi Yoga – “The Yoga of the Heart”

✨ Discover Bhakthi – the Love of Yoga
✨ Learn ancient Sanskrit mantras to free & illuminate the mind
✨ Experience a simple meditation practice to guide you into your Heart
✨ Explore Kirtan— musical chanting to blossom the Heart & awaken the Soul
✨ Connect to your True Self through sacred prayers of intention, love & gratitude

*Space is limited – please send us an email at bindi@bindiyoga.ca with instructions to reserve your spot.*

Categorized as Beginner's Yoga, Meditation, yoga, yoga off the mat, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Lifestyle

5 Pathways to True Bliss

I want to be happy. You want to be happy! Everyone desires happiness, right? It is a worthy desire that connects us all – we all deeply wish to be happy and free of suffering.

But what does it truly mean to be happy?

Since the beginning of time, people of all walks of life have been on the pursuit of happiness, and yet few of us really seem to understand and experience that True Bliss.

But it’s no secret! The Great Masters of all the wisdom traditions from around the world have been pointing humanity in the direction of true, unconditional, causeless joy since the beginning of time.

And yet, in our modern world, it seems as though we’ve confused this happiness for many things— we engage in unhealthy activities, seek fulfillment through material means, desire gratification from others in the attempt to fill ourselves with the happiness that we seek.

Here are some legendary examples maybe you can relate to:

+ We think that buying a new car will make us happy—but we all know that doesn’t really work.

+ We think that drinking a bottle of wine or downing a bag of chips will satisfy us– but we all know that usually doesn’t quite hit the spot.

+ We think that meeting the perfect person and starting a new relationship will make us happy— but after some time, that happiness seems to fade.

+ We think that quitting our job and starting a new career will finally fulfill us— but as it turns out, we still aren’t totally satisfied.

+ We think that by moving to a new city, or going on a vacation, or buying this new thing, or having that new experience will bring us the joy that we have always sought— but the “happiness” that we feel from those experience only seem to last for a moment, before that feeling expires, and we seek after the next new thing to fulfil us.

So why is that? Why does this happiness always seem to wane shortly after we buy a new car, start a new relationship, or begin new career?

Because we are searching for happiness in all the wrong places. We’ve misunderstood what happiness really is. And we’ve confused “happiness’ for pleasure, physical comfort and desire.

PLEASURE VS HAPPINESS

“Happiness is our Natural State. Therefore it is not wrong to desire it. What is wrong is seeking it from the outside when it is inside.” – Sri Ramana Maharshi

Many enlightened masters from all the wisdom traditions of the world, have said since time immemorial the secret— that true happiness comes from within.

+ A new car can be physically comfortable—yes. But give you true and lasting happiness? No…

+ Your new relationship may bring you pleasure— definitely! But it alone cannot truly fulfil you.

+ That vacation you were dying to go on may fulfil a desire momentarily— but that’s all.

We try to fill that spot inside of us that is reserved exclusively for true happiness, which is our birthright, our natural state, our true nature— with something that simply cannot fit. The puzzle pieces simply don’t match up, because happiness cannot be attained from the outside through physical means or mental comforts or temporary experiences.

For example…

+ Pleasure is temporary. Happiness is eternal.
+ Pleasure comes from an outer stimulus. Happiness comes from within.
+ Pleasure arises from a cause. Happiness is causeless.
+ Pleasure is instant gratification. Happiness is true satisfaction.
+ Pleasure is acquired. Happiness is innate.
+ Pleasure arises from circumstances. Happiness defies circumstances.
+ Pleasure is depends on condition. Happiness depends on our mind.

THE WAY TO TRUE HAPPINESS

So what does it truly mean to be happy and where does it come from?

In my own personal pursuit of happiness, here’s what I’ve learned to be true. Discover what happiness really is, where it comes from, and how to get it. Enjoy these 5 simple pathways to experiencing True Bliss in your life:

1) Gratitude

Gratitude is the main ingredient for living a life that is bursting with happiness and True Bliss. To be grateful means to appreciate your current life as it is.

Now— to be grateful for life as it is, doesn’t mean that we stay in unhealthy situations or don’t embrace positive life changes as is appropriate. But it means to value life as it is now, to change your perception of the challenges and obstacles of life, and to embrace them with a positive outlook that naturally makes space for meaningful transformation.

Gratitude alone unlocks the true richness of life. Gratitude transforms what you have, into even more. It turns a stranger into a friend, a house into a home, a meal into a feast. True Bliss comes from recognizing all the beauty that exists and your life and saying a big “thank-you” for it once in a while!

2) Love

“Love is our True Essence.” –Amritanandamayi Devi

Love is the most fundamental source of True Bliss— a life of love, is a very happy life, indeed. Love fulfills us in a way that nothing else can. And this love that the great masters speak of is not just romantic love— though it’s a part. It’s not just parental love— though that’s a part too. It’s not the kind of love that we give and receive— it’s beyond that. This love is unconditional, infinite, eternal. It is true love.

So embody love in all of it’s colors— live a life of kindness, compassion, forgiveness, tolerance, empathy, service etc. and you’ll discover True Bliss in a heartbeat!

Let love be your compass towards a meaningful, fulfilling and Truly Blissed life.

3) Presence

Life is only available to us in the present moment. Therefore, the key to True Bliss is to be fully engaged with the present moment as it is— the only place where life truly exists. Simply by being present in each moment— meaning, your mind is also where your body is in time and space, and your attention is dwelling not in the past or worrying about the future, we can unlock true fulfillment in life.

So live each moment completely. By offering our genuine presence to every moment, we are able to really notice and experience all the beauty, magic and wisdom that exists in every moment when we simply pay attention.

4) Contentment

Contentment is the true art of being happy for no particular reason at all. Contentment alone transforms what we have, into enough. Contentment gives us true fulfillment through arriving at an inner sense of ‘enough-ness,’ ‘completeness’ or ‘wholeness’ which is free from the imprisonment of constantly lusting after comforts, pleasures and mental experiences that ultimately take us away from the present moment, and therefore, the possibility of true joy, and keep us in a state of constantly postponing our happiness until the next new ‘pleasure.’

Inner happiness does not depend on outer circumstances or mental gratifications— it depends on our mind. So allow what you have to be enough, be content with what is, rejoice in the way things are— realize there is nothing lacking, and reveal the wholeness of life!

5) Peace

Only if there is peace in our hearts can we be truly happy. Our happiness and quality of life does not depend upon money, status, relationships, power etc—it comes from within. Inner peace is the only true wealth and it begins the moment we realize that outer circumstances, situations and events of our life do not need to control our inner emotional states. We find peace not by needing to control the natural laws and events of life, but in understanding our perceptions of them, and creating an equanimous relationship to these events with a peaceful outlook.

There is no end to chaos in the world. Hence peace alone is the best way to happiness. Therefore, acquire peace. Make peace with yourself, make peace with this moment, make peace with others and you’re well on your way to True Bliss.

With these 5 simple practices of gratitude, love, presence, contentment and peace, start to discover all the divine beauty, causeless joy, unshakable harmony that lies within and around you— available to you in each and every moment. Experience the True Bliss that is your natural state— the same True Bliss that lies within each and every one of us which connects us all.

If you’re feeling the call to dive deep into the True Bliss that is your own nature, check out our True Bliss Sacred Yoga + Meditation Retreat in Alberta, Canada, where we reveal the ancient practices of yoga, meditation & ritual as taught by the great enlightened sages to experience true Bliss within!

Categorized as Beginner's Yoga, yoga off the mat, Yoga Philosophy, Yoga Quotes, Yogic Lifestyle

5 Classical Yoga Books All Yogis Should Read

Here is a simple but mighty selection of 5 classical yoga books all yogis should read. These top recommended classical and dharmic yoga texts help guide both the brand new yogi and the seasoned spiritual seeker into the true essence of yoga, gain inspiration on the spiritual journey, and deepen one’s understanding of this Timeless Wisdom Tradition.

1. Essential Teachings of Yoga – Shri Ramananda Mayi

The Essential Teachings of Yoga poetically, simply and perfectly outlines the four classical paths of yoga from the Upadesa Saram, one of the greatest treasures of yogic literature. It condenses within its instructions thousands of years of spiritual wisdom. The insight it offers clears many of the doubts and confusion that spiritual seekers encounter on their inner journey towards Truth.

This clear and lucid rendition into English, from the original work of Shri Ramana Maharshi, is sure to illuminate and inspire.

2. Autobiography of a Yogi – Paramahamsa Yogananda

Autobiography of a Yogi is at once a beautifully written account of an exceptional life and a profound introduction to the ancient science of Yoga and its time-honored tradition of meditation. Profoundly inspiring, it is at the same time vastly entertaining, warmly humorous and filled with extraordinary personages. A must read for all yogis!

3. Living With the Himalayan Masters – Swami Rama

In this classical spiritual autobiography, enjoy inspirational stories of Swama Rama’s, one of the greatest sages of the 20^th century as he shares his personal quest for enlightenment and gives profound insight into the living wisdom that is the core of his spiritual mission and legacy.

Discover the rich experiences and lessons learned with the great teachers who guided his life including Sri Bengali Baba, Mahatma Gandhi, Tagore, and other spiritual luminaries— have a glimpse into the living tradition of the Himalayan Masters.

4. The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali – Sri Swami Satchitananda

This valuable classical text provides a complete manual for the study and practice of Raja Yoga, the path of self-discipline, concentration and meditation. These timeless teachings are a treasure to be read and referred to again and again by seekers treading the spiritual path. The ancient Sutras cover the yogic teachings on ethics, meditation, and physical postures, and provide directions for dealing with situations in daily life.

5. The Yoga of the Bhagavad Gita – Paramahamsa Yogananda

With penetrating insight, Paramahamsa Yogananda sheds a clarifying light on the deeper meaning of the Bhagavad Gita’s symbology, and the true intent of India’s timeless and universal scripture.

An inspiring and concise introduction to the spiritual truths of India’s most beloved scripture— the Bhagavad Gita explains the step-by-step methods of yoga meditation and right action to achieve union with Spirit and ultimate liberation.

CARING FOR DHARMA BOOKS

Dharma books contain the sacred yoga teachings of Great Sages and Awakened Ones and have the power to show the way towards total Freedom and Bliss. They contain deep and vast wisdom that help guide us Home on this journey of Life— to the Truth of who we Really Are.

As such, they should be treated with respect and reverence. To help preserve the sacred knowledge within these book and out of respect please:

+ Treat books with care, respect and mindfulness.
+ Never place them directly on the floor, step over them, point your feet at them or take them into the bathroom.
+ Keep in a clean place, and ideally should be covered by fabric when transported.
+ No other mundane objects should be placed on top of them (cell phones, keys, water bottles etc.)
+ If you should one day need to dispose of them, it is best to give them away to a library, or immerse them in a lake, river or ocean rather than throwing them in the trash.

Thank-you for your understanding, love and care of these classical yoga books.

Categorized as Advanced Yoga, Beginner's Yoga, Uncategorized, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Lifestyle

Yogi Tips & Etiquette for Yoga Studios, Spiritual Centers & Sacred Spaces

Whether you’re new to the realms of yoga studios, spiritual centers and sacred spaces, or an advanced yogi, here are the founding principles of yoga etiquette and tips for your own wisdom (or as a humble reminder,) to create the greatest possible experience in these sacred spaces for yourself, and others!

Based on the Yamas and Niyamas— an ethical and moral code of the yogic tradition, below are some simple principles such as non-violence, truthfulness, non-stealing, preservation of vital energy, non-greed, purity, contentment, self-discipline, self-study and devotion. These ancient principles are an incredible code of etiquette, a source of inspiration, and can act as an inner compass for simple practices to follow in sacred spaces for the greatest good of all!

YAMAS – ETHICAL PRACTICES

1. Non-Violence (Ahimsa):
+ Express kindness, compassion, acceptance and respect to fellow students, teachers and the space in thought, word and deed.
+ Be kind and gentle with yourself during movement and spiritual practices.
+ Think kind thoughts, speak kind words, act from kindness only—Practice tolerance and patience.

2. Truthfulness (Satya):
+ Be honest with yourself and your teacher about the reality of your experience.
+ If you have an injury, recent or past surgery, illness, disease, pregnancy or unique challenge – physical, emotional or mental – be open and honest with your teacher about it.
+ Don’t push yourself beyond your boundaries in an asana or meditation practice.
+ If something doesn’t feel right in your body or mind, don’t be afraid to ask for help.

3. Non-Stealing (Asteya):
+ Avoid taking away the peace of others by being mindful of how your presence— and sounds, scents, sights you invite may affect others in quiet spaces. Enter, set up, practice and be in the space as quietly as possible.
+ Turn your devices on silent so their sound doesn’t take away from the silence.
+ Avoid getting up during the practice and moving around, or leaving class early to prevent disrupting fellow students.
+ Arrive early so you don’t accidentally take the attention of fellow students from their practice or the teacher as you set up— 15-20 minutes before class is great!
+ Avoid pointing your feet at the teacher, altar, shrine, or sacred texts to preserve their energy for everyone to experience.
+ Ensure an appropriate energy exchange— when appropriate pay the studio/teacher for the class, make a donation or offer something in exchange.

4. Preservation of Vital Energy (Brahmacharya):
+ Take responsibility for the energy and attitude that you bring with you into the space and preserve your life force energy for yourself.
+ Let go of any judgments towards the teacher, teaching or fellow students.
+ Conserve your energy for spiritual practices, and be intentional in how you exert your energy.
+ Help others to also contain their energy during spiritual practices by giving your neighbours personal space— spreading your yoga mat or meditation cushion out evenly so everyone has comfortable space.
+ Yoga mats/meditation cushions are someone’s personal sacred space. Avoid stepping or touching people’s mats, props or meditation tools such as dharba mats, meditation beads or meditation slings or cushions without permission.
+ Wear practical, appropriate clothing for the setting your in.

5. Non-Greed (Aparigraha):
+ Take only what is given and using only what is needed in regards to teachers time, props, supplies, tea, water etc.
+ When setting up, consider giving your neighbours on all sides personal space, when possible, stagger your mat/meditation cushion slightly so you everyone has arm room, and everyone has
a view of the altar/teacher/mirror if there is one.

NIYAMAS – INTERNAL MORAL CODE

1. Purity (Saucha):
+ Come to class physically clean and free of any strong scents.
+ Try to wear fresh clean clothes, and it’s very beneficial to shower before all spiritual practices to receive the greatest benefit.
+ Clean up after yourself – don’t leave garbage in the space, wipe up any sweat, and clean/put away any props you used.
+ Please avoid wearing shoes into sacred spaces to preserve the purity of the space.
+ Avoid bringing extra, unnecessary and mundane things into sacred spaces— keys, extra clothes, purses etc. If possible, leave things out of the space, or to the sides to not clutter the area. Bring only what you need.
+ Many wisdom traditions prefer to wear white clothes during spiritual practices as a Sattvic colour, which reflects purity and receptivity of the teachings.
+ If you are sick, better you stay at home for your own comfort, and comfort of others.

2. Contentment (Santosha):
+ Express gratitude to fellow students, teachers and spaces, and connecting which the absolute joy, which is your Natural State.
+ Have an open mind and be present with what is in every moment without judgment or expectation. Trust the process!

3. Self-Discipline (Tapas):
+ Spiritual practices are personal practices. Be disciplined and focused on yourself only.
+ Keeping your eyes on yourself, eyes closed and awareness inside is helpful to focus the mind and preserve your energy inside.
+ Draw your awareness from the external world, to your internal experience. Breathe mindfully. Concentrate. Meditate.
+ Practice mindfulness and moment-to-moment self-awareness.

4. Self-Study (Svadhyaya):
+ Take time in silence and stillness before or after class for self-reflection and self-inquiry.
+ Connect inside to your inner experience of the breath, and the beating heart– and hold space in silence and stillness for others to do the same.

5. Devotion to Divinity (Ishvara Pranidhana):
+ Take time in these spaces to connect within to the Beauty, Light and Paradise of your Heart.
+ Open the practice with chanting the mantra Om— the primordial sound, attuning your individual energy to their Natural State of Love, Peace, and Oneness only.
+ See the good in one another. Practices are often closed with the Sanskrit word Namaste— which means that you witness the Divinity, Love, Light and Wisdom within yourself, which is the same Divinity that exists in All Beings.

Namaste and Om Shanti, Shanti, Shantih! May there be Peace within, in the world, and in all beings everywhere.

Categorized as Beginner's Yoga, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Lifestyle

Trust + Surrender: The Art of Letting Go

“Stop fighting and resisting. Try something different – surrender.” – Rumi

MY STORY ON SURRENDER

Four years ago, I found myself at an ashram in Thailand, studying yoga and meditation. I arrived disoriented from heartbreak, dizzy with confusion, incredibly lost and feeling alone. I had been practicing, and teaching yoga for years already, but recent life events left my mind turbulent, my heart shattered and my body locked up like a box.

At this training in the jungle on a foreign island, I held my sad, beaten heart in my hands and presented it to my teachers. They consoled me, and told me that even when I felt like I was suffocating in meditation, to just keep gently breathing into that tender spot in the center of my chest.

“It will open and heal,” they promised.

After a month of intense practice, Asana, (yoga postures,) Sadhana, (daily spiritual practice,) meditation and journaling, we sealed our time together with a closing ceremony. A fire homa they called it. It smelled like incense and the fire they created with palm leaves was warm and bright. Our teachers dotted the space between our eyebrows with sacred ash, red turmeric and sandalwood— or something like that.

At the end, we were given small slips of paper, and were asked to write our Sankalpa, our intention, that we would like to carry with us into the year ahead.

Almost instinctively, my heart traveled down my arm, through my hand and into my grip on the pen, and begged for surrender.

“I am opening up in sweet surrender,” it wrote.

At that time, I really didn’t know what it meant for me, or how this nine letter word would present itself in my life for a whole year.

I devoted myself, and my life to that intention. In times I found myself anxious and worried, tightening my grip on life, and structuring how things ought to be, I soothed myself with this word— surrender. This word dissolved my armor, it woke up my sleepy eyes, and finally, my heart broke open.

Literally, in meditation one day, a cracking sound thundered from the bones of my sternum followed by a flood of blissful tears flowing from my face.

Surrender unchained me from myself. I opened up to the whole Universe, and the Universe opened up to me.
SURRENDER IN YOGA

In Sanskrit, we call the concept of surrender Ishvara Pranidhana. Surrendering (Pranidhana) to a higher source; to the Divine (Ishvara.) Beautiful.

“Surrender is the intersection between acceptance, and change.” – Unknown

With all of my heart, I know that surrender is not submission. It is not backing down. It is not irresponsible, laziness, passivity or being unambitious. It does not mean ‘giving in’ nor does it mean ‘losing’ control or a battle.

The only thing you will lose by surrendering, is frustration, bondage and suffering.

The art of surrender is means to yielding to the flow of life with radical acceptance, ease and grace. Surrender is the opening of our hearts to the unknown, and trusting with faith in the Perfect unfolding of Now. Surrender is a process of letting go of the ‘small’ Self to the ‘big’ Self in each moment. Surrender is an opportunity to tune into the qualities of openness and receptivity to invite total freedom and peace into our lives. Surrender is Freedom.

SURRENDER VS CONTROL

PRACTICE SURRENDER: ISHVARA PRANIDHANA

1. Release how you think things ought to be, and appreciate things as they are. Surrender the expectation that something is wrong if it doesn’t go according to your plan.

2. Steep in the Bliss of simply Being, instead of always doing.

3. Let go of ego, expectation, judgement and attachment- to outcomes, to things, to people, to ideas or concepts.

4. Surrender to the Truth of your Experience in every moment – whatever that is. In this moment there may be happiness, frustration, contentment, anger, joy, shame, gratitude or grief. There is nothing personal about your thoughts or emotions. They are simply phenomena passing through your awareness. Allow these experiences to come and go- without resisting displeasurable ones, or clinging to pleasurable ones.

5. Give yourself the permission to really feel what you feel, because what you feel, you heal. What we resist, persists. And while emotions and thoughts aren’t personal, they are valuable pieces of information. Pain informs Strength. Confusion informs Clarity. Failure informs Wisdom. Grief informs Compassion. And so on.

6. Open yourself up to the Perfect Bliss of Now, instead of resisting it or wishing life were any other way than it is. Wholeheartedly engage with each and every moment, as it is, and recognize the Absolute Perfection in it all.

7. Have faith and trust that you always have been, always are, and you always will be supported by Life. You are living proof that you’ve survived every moment of your life so far – and will continue to thrive. Life gives us precisely what we need in each and every moment for our hearts to open and souls to Awaken. Trust that you are exactly where you need to be. Surrender to the process and have faith that all is perfect.

8. Be open to the possibility that something may be greater than you alone and what you are able to control. Surrender your fear and pain, and witness something far greater than that which the fear was trying to protect.

You are not a salmon, so stop swimming up stream. Practice Ishvara Pranidhana. Go with the Perfect Flow of Life. Surrender to what is. Surrender in pigeon pose. Surrender to love. Surrender, and Be Free.

How can you surrender to move through life with peace, ease, grace and fluidity?

Categorized as yoga, yoga off the mat, Yoga Philosophy, Yoga Quotes, Yogic LifestyleTagged as 8 Limbs of Yoga, Ishvara Pranidhana, Surrender

4 Key Aspects of Yogic Living (+ Tips for Staying True on the Path!)

We hold within us all infinite wisdom and endless knowledge. Already, we hold within all that we could ever need to come home to the remembrance of who we really are. Ultimately, we require nothing outside of what is here, now and within to remember Truth.

However, we live in an age that tends to have some distractions and confusion which clouds our perception of Reality. To help create ease on your journey, here are four key aspects of yoga to help maintain, inspire and encourage you on the path of awakening and enlightened living.

1) Spiritual Community (Sangha)

If you have even one person in your life on the same or a similar path as you, you’ve encountered a great blessing. In yoga, we call our spiritual community our Sangha. Sangha is a valuable part of our spirituality. Being immersed in a community of like-minded souls is inspiring, grounding, and uplifting. It is invaluable when it comes to living an inspired, conscious yogic life, and realizing the Truth of our own Divine Nature. Your Sangha is an endless source of love, support, inspiration, connection and a safe space to Be As You Are.

When possible, choose to surround yourself with positive, wise, peaceful, truth-seeking, love-embodying people, places and nature that encourage and inspire you on your spiritual journey— on the path to the remembrance of your True Nature.

2) Spiritual Practice (Sadhana)

Practice, practice, practice. Sadhana is our daily spiritual practice or discipline. To experience the true Bliss, Freedom and Peace that is our Natural State, we as yogis have incredibly valuable tools and practices available to us to help guide us into this state of Being.

Create a daily Sadhana that resonates with your heart. Your Sadhana may include yoga poses (Asana,) breathing techniques (Pranayama,) meditation (Dharana,) chanting mantra, kirtan, or self-reflection. Shorter, more frequent practices are more beneficial than longer practices done sporadically. A daily and consistent practice is the key to enlightened living.

3) Spiritual Texts (Svadhyaya)

On our spiritual journey, reading the sacred texts written by the enlightened sages and saints is an invaluable source of wisdom and inspiration. Svadhyaya means “self-study” and includes study of the classical texts of yoga—the authorities of classical yogic and vedic knowledge.

Some simple and inspiring texts to read are:
+ “Autobiography of a Yogi” by Paramahamsa Yogananda
+ “Living with the Himalayan Masters” by Swami Rama
+ “Yoga Sutras of Patanjali” commentary by Swami Durgananda
+ “Bhagavad Gita” commentary by Swami Sivananda
+ “Be As You Are” teachings of Sri Ramana Maharshi

4) Spiritual Teacher (Guru)

Ultimately, life is full of teachers— teachers come in many forms and the whole world is our classroom. However, it is a great gift to have a spiritual teacher whom we can connect with and receive knowledge and inspiration from.

The Sanskrit word guru means “gu” (darkness,) and “ru” (that which dispels.) The guru is a spiritual teacher who helps guide us from unreal to real, darkness to light, ignorance to knowledge. A Sattvic Guru is an embodiment of Love, Peace and Truth. In their presence, we are uplifted and humbly guided into our own awakening.

You must listen to your heart while searching for your teachers. Seek out a teacher for whom emanates Love, Truth and Peace. Choose a teacher who is devoted to their own practice and awakening, comes from a traditional lineage, and who follows ancient scriptures not only in words but in everyday life.

Additionally, look to the yoga masters for inspiration— the great sages, spiritual masters and realized beings for guidance— teachers like Sri Ramana Maharshi, Amma Sri Karunamayi, Swami Saraswati Sivananda, Swami Vivekananda, Swami Rama, Swami Satyananda Saraswati, the Buddha, Jesus Christ and many other enlightened souls who have devoted their lives to the path of Realization have passed down the ancient traditions of yoga generation after generation.

Immerse yourself in the greatness of Sangha (Spiritual Community,) Sadhana (Spiritual Practice,) Svadhyaya (Self-Study + Spiritual Texts,) and in Wisdom from the Guru (Spiritual Teacher) to inspire you on your journey of Awakening and Yogic living. May we all be blessed as we come Home.

Categorized as Meditation, yoga, yoga off the mat, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Lifestyle

Yoga and the Soul

“You yourself are eternity; you yourself are infinity; you yourself are immortality.” –Amma Shri Karunamayi

If you are reading this, like me, you’ve encountered the rare and precious gift of being born as a human. Like many great wisdom traditions around the world, yoga teaches us that “I” and you are simply soul manifested in the form of a human— energy descended into matter.

Not only have you been blessed with this human experience, but you’ve also found the path of yoga and dharma. The greatest blessing and purpose of this human experience is for the heart to open and the soul to evolve— to become Self-Aware. There are many paths to this one Truth; and from the fruits of positive karma from countless lives, you’ve been blessed to find the incredible path of yoga. In the shape of a human, you’ve been blessed with conscious awareness, the capacity to Be and recognize your own existence, to and the ability to realize or remember who you really are at your essence.

The timeless teachings of yoga teach us that we are Atman— immortal and eternal, embodiments of Spirit. The soul is the absolute essence of you— it is who you really are. The soul is the True Self; your True Nature. It is the answer and Truth to one of the greatest questions yoga asks us— “Who Am I?” And when we trace this question back to it’s source, we find the simple but profound Bliss of Nothingness, Oneness and Infinity simultaneously. We discover that who we really are is Pure Divinity, Infinity, Immortality— Pure Bliss.

You are pure Consciousness, pure Energy, pure Being. You are timeless. Boundless and Eternal. You are a piece of Spirit or God or Source—a spark of divine light and love, a fragment of Absolute Perfection.

This same essence resides in all living Beings everywhere. In this way we are the same. There is Oneness only. This is the meaning of Namaste— recognizing and bowing to the divinity, the Love, the Absolute Consciousness and Perfection that exists within all Beings, and witnessing and serving all beings as embodiments and manifestations of the Spirit that we all Are.

Like you, all is Spirit. All is Love. All is One. All that you see in this world is Spirit manifest. All of this is the phenomenal expression of Divinity. Life’s joy, sorrows, happiness, challenges and grief is all perfect—for Life will always give us the gift of precisely what we need in each and every moment for our hearts to open and our soul to evolve. May we see with the eyes of Love, speak with the words of Love, and act from Love’s Grace. May we see Spirit in the eyes of all Beings. And remember our unity always.

“Life on this Earth teaches everyone many lessons. The wise ones take these lessons to heart and experience inner awakening.” – Amma Shri Karunamayi

One of the greatest gifts of this human experience is that the soul that we are evolves— through the experiences of life, mundane, joyful and challenging. All these experiences are the fruits of previous karmas that are written in the contract of our soul for this lifetime. This is the gift of Being here— to experience life as it is. To be as we are— steeping in the Perfection of each and every moment. Resting in the Bliss of who we really are. To awaken to the Truth of where we’ve come from, where we’re going, and why we’re here. To remember Reality so we may all come home to the Love that is our True Nature.

May you enjoy the bliss of this human experience. May you enjoy this moment exactly as it is in it’s absolute perfection—as it is the only one there is and has ever been. May you rise up to the challenges of life— allow all experiences, and people you encounter to be your teachers so your soul may evolve and awaken to the Truth. Meditate to deepen your remembrance of your own Divine Nature.

Devote your time while in this temple of flesh and bone to Awakening; Remembering; Realizing your own Divinity— so you may be truly Happy and Free.

Categorized as Advanced Yoga, Yoga Philosophy

7 Sacred Mantras for Spiritual Illumination

Mantras are powerful sacred sound vibrations from the ancient Sanskrit language that are traditionally chanted during spiritual practices in the yogic tradition.

Mantras are composed of Sanskrit letters, each infused with unique frequencies— much like scientific formulas of sound vibration known to have unique qualities, effects and energies. Similarly, Mantras act like a secret password to various aspects of our inner dimension. They are said to hold subtle knowledge in their vibration, and cleanse the body, mind and spirit.

Repetition of a Mantra is proven to have incredible benefits for the body, mind, and spirit. They are scientifically proven to help calm the mind, balance the nervous system, evoke knowledge, assist in healing the body and mind, increase physiological alertness and synchronicity of certain biorhythms, increase health and well-being and create a single-pointed, concentrated awareness in the mind.

Choose one of the following Mantras that resonates with your heart for your highest good and for the greater good of all Beings everywhere.

Om Namah Shivaya  (Aum Na-mah She-vai-yah)
Rebirth. Letting go. Healing. Surrender. Strength. Compassion.

Om Gam Ganapatayae Namaha  (Aum Gah-mm Gah-na-pat-eye-aye Na-ma-ha)
Overcoming Obstacles. Inner Wisdom. Ease. Supreme Knowledge. Awakening.

Om Hrim Dhum Durga Devai Namaha (Aum Hreem Doom Dur-gah Dev-yay Na-ma-ha)
Protection. Truth. Courage. Power. Purity. Fearlessness. Forgiveness.

Om Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu (Aum Low-kah Some-ah-sta Sook-ee-no Bah-van-too)
Peace Prayer: May all beings everywhere be happy and free of suffering.

Om Shring Hring Kleeng Mahalakshmi Namaha (Aum Shh-ring H-ring Cling Mahah-Luck-shh-mee Na-ma-ha)
Abundance. Dharma – Purpose. Beauty. Freedom. Success.

Om Aim Shrim Hrim Saraswati Devyai Namaha (Aum I’m Shreem Hreem Sara-swat-ee Dave-yay Na-ma-ha)
Creativity. Highest Knowledge. Arts. Intelligence. Beauty. Truth. Expression.

Om Aim Klim Somaya Namaha (Aum I’m Kleem Soma-Ya Na-ma-ha
Secret Knowledge of the Moon. Surrender. Peace. Receptivity. Divine Feminine.

With love, practice, and intention invite the secret power of mantras into your daily practice and life and witness great benefit for yourself and all beings everywhere.

Categorized as Meditation, Uncategorized, yoga, yoga off the mat, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic LifestyleTagged as mantra, om

Om: The Sound of the Universe

In our first few yoga classes, it may seem a little strange or awkward to loudly chant a funny “home” like sound before we begin our yoga practice— but with a bit of understanding and practice, you may just fall in love with the beauty and benefits of the incredible sound of Om.

WHAT IS OM?

Om is a sacred mantra and sound vibration traditionally chanted before and after spiritual practices in the yogic tradition.

Mantras are like scientific formulas of sound vibration known to have unique qualities, effects and energies. Repetition of mantras, including the sound of Om, are proven to have incredible benefits for the body, mind, and spirit.

Om is one of the most simple and ancient mantras, or sound vibrations. Known as the sacred primordial sound, it is said in the yogic tradition that all sound is born from Om. Om is known as the original vibration of the universe.

This sacred sound is composed of three fundamental syllables – A U M, which represents the various states of awareness, and the trinity of divine energies of Creation, Preservation and Liberation.

Within Aum, the first sound is “awe,” then the sound “oo,” then “mmm,” followed by a pause of silence.

WHY SHOULD WE CHANT OM?

All life on earth is simply energy, occupying space and matter. Everything we’ve ever known is simply vibration resonating at various frequencies. Similarly, chanting the sound vibration of Om is mathematically consistent with the frequency found throughout everything in nature and the universe.

Known as the “sound of the universe,” the sacred primordial sound and original vibration, the practice of chanting Om is like training our own vibration back to our original resonance— our True Nature. We are symbolically and physically tuning in to that sound frequency and remembering our connection to all living beings, nature and the universe.

Chanting Om is like turning on the switch to cosmic energy— it is the transmission of pure Divine Love, and therefore it is necessary to first chant Om before and after spiritual practices to both initiate and seal the energy, as well as before chanting other mantras to have the full effect.

Mantras, including Om, are indestructible positive energies— meaning they remain in the cosmos indefinitely for the greater good of all and help reduce negative karmas.

Additionally, the repetition of Om is scientifically proven to help calm the mind, balance the nervous system, evoke knowledge, assist in healing the body and mind, increase physiological alertness and synchronicity of certain biorhythms, increase health and well-being and create a single-pointed, concentrated awareness in the mind.

HOW TO OM

Om acts as bookends to the practice. It establishes the beginning and end of Sadhana, yoga or spiritual practices such as meditation, pranayama, yoga asana, or chanting other mantra. It helps to differentiate the practice from other parts of the day, and contain the energy within the practice.

To open your yoga and spiritual practices with Om, try this:

1) Find a comfortable position with an upright spine and eyes closed.
2) Take a moment to ground, center, focus with love and gratitude in your heart.
3) Take a deep breath in, and on the exhale make the sound AUM (awe, oo, mmm.)
4) Repeat 3 or 9 times total.

TIPS FOR CHANTING OM

Begin the “awe” sound of AUM at a lower resonance, and then raise the sound to a higher note as you sound “oo” and “mmm.”

Create equal length of all three sounds A,U,M. And finish the whole sound with a pause of silence as you take your next big inhalation to create the next sound.

Visualize moving the vibration from the lower chakras, up and out through the crown of the head as you feel the sound raising up through your lower belly, chest and head.

On the “mmm” sound of AUM, you may try pressing the tip of your tongue to the roof of the mouth to help rise the energy into the higher chakras.

When chanted with devotion, love and sincerity, the positive effects of the vibrations are catalyzed and made more powerful.

With a greater understanding of the meaning of Om, may you receive more from and deepen your yoga practice, remember your True Nature, and return to Oneness.

Categorized as Beginner's Yoga, Meditation, Uncategorized, yoga, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic Lifestyle

The Yogi Code: The Yamas

The Yamas are the founding principles of the 8 Limbs of Yoga outlined in the Yoga Sutras summarized by Patanjali. They are the foundation of living a conscious and yogic life. The Yamas are external disciplines— a sum of ethical practices, values and virtues available to us so we may interact, relate and co-exist peacefully with all beings and with the planet.

The Yamas can be broken down into 5 specific areas; Ahimsa (non-harming,) Satya (truthfulness,) Asteya (non-stealing,) Brahmachara (continence,) Aparigraha (non-possessiveness.)

Lets further explore the qualities of the Yamas, these values and virtues to live more peaceful lives both on and off the mat.

1.AHIMSA: non-harming, non-violence, non-aggression, compassion, forgiveness, kindness— love.

2. SATYA: truthfulness, honesty, sincerity. Being truthful in thought, word and deed. Living one’s truth; sacred purpose or dharma.

3. ASTEYA: non-stealing. Take only what is offered and use only what is needed.

4. BRAHMACHARYA: moderation and continence. Preservation of vital energy. Exerting one’s energy wisely. Sexual responsibility or celibacy.

5. APARIGRAHA: non-possessiveness, non-greed, non-hoarding, non-collection, non-gluttony, non-attachment.

By practicing the Yamas, you can advance your yoga to the next level by transforming yoga from a simple practice, into your way of life. May these ethical practices of yoga guide you deeper into the essence of yoga and transform your yoga practice both on the mat, and off the mat into the world.

How do you practice the Yamas – on the mat and off the mat? We’d love to hear about it in the comments below. <3

Categorized as Uncategorized, yoga, yoga off the mat, Yoga Philosophy, Yogic LifestyleTagged as 8 Limbs of Yoga, Ahimsa, Aparigraha, Asteya, Brahmacharya, Satya, Yamas