Science, Yoga, and girish unite

I love when modern science lines up with ancient knowledge.  With science getting more and more sophisticated, and reports of this work becoming more accessible because of the internet, we are seeing in writing the ideas that uphold what those of us who have been studying, and trusting, yoga for years have experienced. It almost makes one want to shake their finger and say "told you so", but of course I would never do that. (Click to read the article on "the Sanskrit Effect")

Once, many years ago, there was another yoga studio in the area that advertised their classes as being "real yoga" with "no chanting at all!"  I knew this was directed at classes at Yoga Loka because we chant!  I also know it makes some people uncomfortable. But some people also are uncomfortable getting their teeth cleaned, exercising, getting a yearly physical, relaxing, and doing a million other things that keep them healthy, vital, and enjoying life. 

Now there is this report that says chanting is good for us too. There are people who just know they like it, which is surely enough reason to just do it. But knowing you are helping your brain as you join in with your favorite kirtan wallah is like winning the lottery!  OK, maybe that is too dramatic and you are not that into chanting.  Just know that even listening to mantras can have an effect on your energy, your mind, and your physical brain.  No need to even open your mouth.  My training has taught me that mantras repeated internally actually have the greatest benefit.  But joining your voice with others in community can not be underestimated either.  

There are two great opportunities to hear mantras with amazing vibration the end of July.  I will be leading an all level asana class with Girish chanting, live and in person, right there in the room with us.  Moving to live music is amazing!  It amplifies the benefits of both the mantra and the asana. The next night Girish will be holding a kirtan in Upper Black Eddy at Sky Island.  Either of these experiences (I of course recommend you do both!) will give you the felt experience of the benefit of mantra, and you won't need a scientist to tell you that this is medicine.  If you would like to read more about mantras and their vibration, Girish has an amazing book about mantra which  you can find online (Amazon link below), or get a copy from him directly. 

See you there!

Yoga With Bonnie/Music With Girish: Thursday July 26th, 7 to 8:30 pm. $35 to pre-register, $40 at the door. Click here to register, or click here to view all of our other workshops.