The Joy of Music Meditation and Mantras
Aloha Beautiful Souls,
Hope you are having a delightful spring, mindfully taking care of yourself. I dove deep into the wonderful healing world of music meditation and mantras this past year, and let me tell you, it’s been an incredible journey. Many of you know that I had a rough year spent in differential diagnosis—meaning I was really sick, and none of the doctors could diagnose me. Turns out it was multiple things, but at the core was heavy metal toxicity from mercury and lead. I have been chelating for months (chelation is a process where substances are used to remove heavy metals from the body), and I've also been cleansing my mind through meditation, chanting, and mantras.
If you listen to my live weekly broadcast, A Dose of Positivity, you know I interview a lot of spiritual musicians, and for good reasons. There’s something truly magical about these practices that have helped heal me and millions of others. So, if you’ve ever been curious about what kirtan is or why chanting mantras could be your new favorite thing, keep reading!
What is Kirtan?
Kirtan is a form of music meditation that involves singing and chanting mantras, usually in a call-and-response format. It’s a communal experience where everyone gets to participate, creating a beautiful tapestry of sound and energy. When you come to a kirtan event, you can expect a room filled with positive vibes, rhythmic melodies, and a sense of unity that’s hard to find anywhere else.
Why a Call and call-and-response format?
You might wonder why kirtan is structured as call and response. Well, the call-and-response format is all about connection and participation. When the leader sings a line and the audience responds, it creates a dynamic flow of energy. It’s like having a conversation through music, where everyone’s voice contributes to the overall harmony. Plus, it makes it easy for everyone to join in, even if you’re new to chanting.
The Intention and Benefit of Chanting
The intention behind kirtan and chanting is to focus the mind, open the heart, and connect with something greater than ourselves. This type of chanting can be incredibly uplifting and healing. It helps quiet the constant chatter of the mind and brings us into the present moment. The benefits? Reduced stress, increased peace, and a sense of spiritual connection. Trust me, after a session, you’ll feel like you’re floating on a cloud.
What is a Mantra?
A mantra is a word or phrase repeated during meditation or chanting. It’s like a mental tool that helps focus your mind and keeps you grounded. Mantras can be in any language, but many traditional ones are in Sanskrit.
Why Chant Mantras?
You might ask, why chant mantras and not something else? Mantras are specifically designed to have a profound impact on our consciousness. They carry specific vibrations that can help shift our energy and mindset. Chanting mantras isn’t just about the words; it’s about the vibrational quality and the intention behind them. They’re powerful tools for transformation.
The Sanskrit Connection
Now, is it important to chant in Sanskrit? While it’s not mandatory, chanting in Sanskrit can enhance the experience. Sanskrit is an ancient language with a unique vibrational quality that resonates deeply within us. However, what’s most important is the intention and feeling behind the chant. If you’re more comfortable speaking another language, go for it! The key is to connect with the meaning and energy of the mantra.
Addressing Discomfort with Foreign Language Chants
I understand that chanting deities’ names in a foreign language can feel a bit strange at first. My advice? Give it a try with an open heart. It’s less about the literal translation and more about the vibration and the feeling it invokes. If you’re uncomfortable, start with understanding the meaning behind the chants. Knowing the translation can help you connect more deeply with the practice.
So, why not give it a try? Join a kirtan, chant a mantra, and see how it feels. My daily morning ritual involves guided meditations, mantra chanting, and pranayama breathing using Insight Time, a virtual app, nearly as good as a live kirtan. You might just find a new favorite way to meditate and connect with yourself and others. It’s fun, it’s healing, and it’s an experience that can help you heal ad keep you healthy.
Chant with us this Thursday, June 20, when I will host a live interview and a short kirtan with professional musicians and chanters Alana Cahoon & John Covach. Let’s create some beautiful vibrations together!
