Kirtan

Kirtan is a call-and-response.  
As a practice of Bhakti Yoga 
(the Yoga of Devotion)
it is a living conversation with the Divine.

Calling out
and learning to listen for-
to hear, 
the reply.


Similar to Japa meditation 
(silent repetition)
the practice of Kirtan promotes focus
and intensive involvement in the moment.
However, with Kirtan
the voice is essential and as such
there are many extra benefits.

*Vocal practices are breath practices.
We naturally develop mindfulness and control of breath when chanting or singing.

*Vocal practices stimulate the Vagus Nerve.   
Humming and singing have been shown to powerfully support regulation of the nervous system.

*Vocal practices are not hidden.
In Kirtan, each voice is a profound contribution which is met with immediate reciprocity.  It is at once an opportunity to take up space as an individual, and to be immersed and held in community.