Nothing Moves Me Quite Like Kirtan by Gauri
(reporting from the Yoga Warehouse, Fort Lauderdale, FL)

When many in the west think of yoga, they think of asana. Bending, flexing and stretching our bodies toward bliss is the common association. But Yoga, as dedicated practitioners know, is so much more than the physical postures we do. Stretching the body is a small part of a larger, beautiful practice.

Stretching the vocal chords and heart through kirtan, call and response chanting of the many names of the Divine, is another amazing part. Kirtan uplifts. It almost instantly changes the energy of any room or physical space that its vibrations permeate, not to mention one's own energy. To chant in a group from the heart with real passion and full abandon is one of the most incredible experiences.

Recently Fort Lauderdale's Sivananda-affiliated Yoga Warehouse hosted kirtan artist and Sivananda teacher Narayan Jyoti for an amazing gathering. Narayan's melodic voice, easy demeanor and wonderful harmonium playing were joined by local musician Richard Brookens' broad range of percussion and wind instruments, including tablas and flute. The energy of the evening was so joyful as a crowd full of faces of different ages, backgrounds, lifestyles and interests came together with one voice, one heart. To be in that space, sharing so purely and openly, is truly sacred and special.

For me personally, chanting is the highlight of my yoga practice. I love asana, I believe wholly in the benefits of meditation, but nothing moves me quite like kirtan. It is my hope that more and more people, asana practitioners or not, will have the chance to experience the magic that chanting mantras creates. Namaste!

Gauri