Mantra Music? It’s Time for Bhakti Yoga.

Today, many yoga practitioners are seeking a spiritual experience through the body. They have a hunger to transform consciousness and a growing readiness to move deeper. Bhakti yoga, the yoga of devotion, offers a path to the inner world.

While Bhakti yoga takes many forms, mantra music is likely the most accessible. By chanting mantras, often in a gathering called kirtan, we are drawn beneath the chatter of the mind into our hearts. Until you have had a direct experience, chanting mantras might seem esoteric. In fact, North American kirtan is easy to join. By pairing Indian mantras with western chord progressions and sweet melodies, the esoteric feels more familiar. Separated from any religious context, kirtan is based on common spiritual truths and can be accessed by people of any faith or background.

The purpose of mantras can go beyond quieting the mind. Each mantra has a particular vibration. Chanting a mantra helps align our bodies’ energy with that spiritual truth. A simple example is the mantra: “So hum”, “I am that I am”. Repeating this mantra aligns us with our soul nature so we rest in the depth of our being rather than in the smallness of our mind’s identity.

For me, mantras are like energy medicine for my daily life. If this sounds mysterious, compare the repetition of mantras to a positive affirmation practice. Affirmations program the mind and replace negative thoughts with positive ones. Mantra practice quiets the mind, which by its nature feels separate, and connects us with our wholeness within. From our wholeness, we have broad aerial perspective and are infused with rich guidance.

While you might not fall into deep bliss the first time you chant, you will feel something distinct. At kirtan gatherings, live music makes the mood festive. Unlike a traditional concert, kirtan music is co-created with the group. The leader sings and the group responds. Even people who think they can’t sing find themselves chanting because the mood is inclusive. The collective experience creates a joyful feeling of connectedness.

I am encouraged by the growing interest in meditation and specifically in kirtan. When I first started singing mantra music I was hesitant about who to invite to our events. I was worried it would seem too occult. I don’t know what’s changed more, my attitude or general receptivity. I’ve discovered that many people, even those who have nothing to do with yoga, are appreciating kirtan as a practice and embracing it into their lives.