What is Kirtan ?
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Although this yogic practice of sound meditation is more than 500 years old, it's still new to most people in New Zealand.
Everyone knows yoga nowadays and even the word mantra is somewhat familiar, but Kirtan? mmmh not sure. So here is a bit of a low down: Kirtan is the chanting of mantras in a group of people. Usually it is practiced in a call and response fashion. So the so-called 'kirtan leader' sings a certain mantra and the group sings it back. The style of kirtan can range from meditational to rock'n'roll. So there is a lot of variety and usually something for everyone's taste. |
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Mantras are sanskrit words or phrases that literally mean "free your mind" if you would attempt to translate the word mantra.
And that is exactly what these mystical little things can do for you and actually much more.
The group chanting of mantras, or kirtan, has incredible benefits which include:
These benefits, of course, are individual, but after many years of asking people about their experiences the above mentioned ones are among the commonly mentioned.
The cool thing about kirtan, compared to other singular practices, is that you are practicing with others, who help with their chanting to deepen your experience of the kirtan.
The more everyone gives themselves to the sound experience and participates in it, the more everyone benefits from it and the dynamic of the kirtan becomes enhanced.
Another cool thing is that really anyone can participate.
You don't have to be physically fit or be an amazing singer.
It's about joining the group sound, so if you are a good singer or not...the group will balance it out.
The main idea is to absorb your heart, mind and soul in the spiritual sound vibration of the mantra. And for that you just need a pair of ears to receive the sound and a mouth to sing from your heart!
Enough said.
And that is exactly what these mystical little things can do for you and actually much more.
The group chanting of mantras, or kirtan, has incredible benefits which include:
- feeling completely refreshed and energetic
- bliss and happiness
- a peaceful heart and a calm mind
- the whole body buzzing with prana
- relaxation
- focus of mind
These benefits, of course, are individual, but after many years of asking people about their experiences the above mentioned ones are among the commonly mentioned.
The cool thing about kirtan, compared to other singular practices, is that you are practicing with others, who help with their chanting to deepen your experience of the kirtan.
The more everyone gives themselves to the sound experience and participates in it, the more everyone benefits from it and the dynamic of the kirtan becomes enhanced.
Another cool thing is that really anyone can participate.
You don't have to be physically fit or be an amazing singer.
It's about joining the group sound, so if you are a good singer or not...the group will balance it out.
The main idea is to absorb your heart, mind and soul in the spiritual sound vibration of the mantra. And for that you just need a pair of ears to receive the sound and a mouth to sing from your heart!
Enough said.