Introduction to chanting:

Chanting creates a resonance in our system that can have many positive effects. It helps improve memory and our capacity to listen. Numerous studies have shown that chanting regularly over time may elicit positive changes in the brain, including: improved mood, reduced anxiety, better cognitive function. By chanting we integrate the meaning of the chants into our mind and heart. It has the potential to help us deepen our ability to understand the meaning of chant, furthermore, transform our perspective of the world around us. 

Q & A:

Q: What language are we chanting?

A: Sanskrit. Sanskrit is the language of the sacred text of ancient India. It’s the language of mantra. Learning Sanskrit is similar to how we learn the alphabets.

Q: I’ve never chanted before. How am I going to learn it?

A: You will be taught step-by-step through listening and response. It's just like how you learn the alphabet. Every letter has its own range of vibration. LIke an orchestra, every instrument has its place. 

Q: What’s the benefit of chanting?

A: Chanting can influence our autonomic nervous system. We can use different volumes to either energize or sedate. Different sounds have different energetic effects, such as cooling or heating. Chanting can help us lengthen the breath. Chanting can improve focus and memory. Most importantly, chanting helps us to integrate the meaning into your mind and heart. 

Q: What should I expect in this workshop?

A: You will first learn about the rules and techniques of chanting: pronunciation, pitch, meter, force, lining of notes, punctuation. Then, we are going to chant selective verses from the Yoga Sutra to experience the effect of the sounds and apply them to rules and techniques. The sutras selected will be those most relevant to the practice and teaching of yoga in contemporary western culture. We will talk about the meaning and integrate the sutra into asana, thereby enhancing the effect and embodying the meaning. Simple movement and breathing will be taught to enhance the experience of sitting and chanting.

Q: Who is this workshop for?

A: Anyone who wants to learn about chanting, feel the effect of the sound you create, and use this powerful tool towards transformation. 

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