Kīrtan - yoga singing - reaches the parts that other techniques are not always able to, refreshing and recalibrating our system all the way down to the cellular level using the simple, accessible resources of our own voice, focus and attention.
The glorious practice of kīrtan is as old as human life. Wherever you came out of the womb, whoever your parents were, your heritage is of song and dance, of gathering around the fire, the hearth - in what some call the heart space - to share song, dance, story, food and fellowship and to create our own, collaborative, participative entertainment. Singing together (and dancing and listening and so on) nourishes a cell deep memory of the power of being an incarnate human and the magic of contributing to the family of life.
Kīrtan is a practice that helps us come together, individually and as a group. It helps energy and emotion move and circulate and allows us to express grief and praise, longing and belonging, reverence, enthusiasm and exultation. When we come together to sing with others, we can create and tune in to a unique symphony that provokes a recreational dance at the cellular level of our being. Bathing in sound that penetrates and pervades we can refresh ourselves in ways that other practice techniques are not always able to.
A few words about James:
James Boag, a distinguished sanskrit scholar and yoga teacher, shares yoga as a whole life practice and has been leading kīrtan around the world for the last twenty years. Deeply rooted in the traditions of Shankaracaraya Vedic, Kashmiri Shaiva, and Sanskrit, James Boag's work breathes vibrant life into the timeless wisdom of yoga. His teachings beckon contemporary seekers to forge a dynamic and enduring relationship with the practical wisdom nestled at the core of the yoga tradition.
What people say:
'James holds a warm and welcoming space. He makes Sanskrit comprehensible and helps us see why Sanskṛt is such an incredible language.' Clare N
'James’ kīrtan-s inspire such joy. He has a fabulous voice and does such a lovely job of inviting everybody to share in a way that makes traditional kīrtan accessible and fun.' Philippa B
'It was my first time at a kirtan, James made everyone feel very welcome. I was surprised and moved by how powerful the Sanskrit chanting was.' Andrew B
'Read more about James and his approach to whole life yoga, yogic movement and kīrtan on his website: www.jamesboagyoga.com
Cost: £28 book here