a look at mantras, its benefits and why it is becoming another tool for meditation with music…
What is Kirtan Chanting?
Kirtan chanting is the easiest way to clear the mind… When we chant, we are chanting ancient sacred texts (mantras) in a call-response fashion. Usually there is one leader called the kirtankar and the group repeats exactly the words, thereafter…This is done for a longer period of time to let the mind tune itself to the mantra…By chanting in a repetitive form, your mind has no way to wander, and it is much easier than silent meditation, therefore very good for beginners. You can then experience your voice within…
Mantras are used in a kirtan practice. Sometimes we can chant acapella and sometimes with the accompaniment of instruments such as the harmonium, or shruti and various percussions. There is no right or wrong way. There are no set rules for chanting. The most wonderful thing about mantra meditation is that one may chant anywhere -- at home, at work, driving in the car, in a group setting, or riding on the bus or subway. And one may chant at any time.
What will I get out of this?
Latest studies have shown that yoga and meditation increasingly help to relieve stress and several health problems like high blood pressure and emotional depression. For centuries, the therapeutic value of music and sound has been known. Specific sounds and music were played as a form of natural medicine. Now you can enjoy the mantras and sound healing right where you are…
In Kundalini Yoga, it is implemented as part of the practice where we not only work on the physical body with postures and kriyas, but also on the mind and internal bodies with breathing and mantra meditation. This is part of the class and it is complete in itself.
For those who would like to try this new meditation, I suggest attending a kirtan or a kundalini yoga class where the mantras are given to you and you can hear the exact pronunciation (important) and experience the serene feeling for yourself…
Namaste © Lea Longo 2010
