Date & Time: Offered as 8 weekly sessions on Sundays, December 27, Jan 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Feb 7 & 14, 2:00-3:30pm EST

Hours: 12 hours

“Mantra Yoga is an exact science. By the constant thinking of Mantra, one is protected and released from the round of births and death. A mantra generates the creative force and bestows eternal Bliss. A mantra, when constantly repeated, awakens the consciousness” – Swami Sivananda, Japa Yoga

Japa meditation is a method of channeling one’s consciousness from the lowest to the highest level of pure thoughts. Repeated verbally or mentally, a Mantra lifts one into the telepathic stage and beyond to the transcendental.

This course will cover both theory and practice of Japa meditation. It will include real-time practices in the classes. Students will receive home exercises and will be offered feedback and guidance from Rukmini Chaitanya as well as an opportunity to ask practice-related questions.

Part 1

Unfold the definition of Mantra as mystical energy encased in a sound structure.

• Understand that every Mantra contains power within its vibration.
• Explore sacred syllables, which are Sanskrit names of the Absolute, and see how Divine power manifests in sound.
• Learn the importance of receiving proper initiation to a mantra by a qualified teacher.

Part 2

Discuss the different mantras for Japa.

• Learn deity mantras (Saguna mantras) related to deities such as Ganesha, Siva, Vishnu, Krishna, Rama, Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Hanuman, etc.
• Understand the meaning of Reach mantras, pronunciation, and some background about the deities that are associated with those mantras.
• Discuss the Nirguna mantras (abstract mantras) Om and Soham, and learn the proper way of pronunciation, their meaning, and how to use them for meditation.
• Learn the importance of having a personal Mantra and the methods for choosing your own personal Mantra. Rukmini Chaitanya will be available to offer individual guidance to each student on selecting their personal Mantra.

Part 3

Study the actual practice of Japa Meditation.

• Learn various practical aids to progress in Japa meditation that have been tested for thousands of years and are based on sound psychological and natural principles.
• Understand how to use the Japa mala – the rosary that is used in the practice of Japa meditation, as well as practices and prayers that could be done just before starting the practice of Japa, in order to induce purity of feeling.
• Learn how to use a chakra as a focal point in the practice of Japa and how to invoke the aid of the chosen deity and the guru.
• Examine how to pronounce the Mantra, the recommended speed of repetition, and how to meditate on the meaning of the Mantra.
• Study how to keep the mind focused on the mantra throughout the duration of the practice.
• Learn how to conclude the practice with prayer and rest.

Throughout the course, you will learn how to overcome the obstacles in the practice of Japa, how to sustain interest, avoid fatigue, and counteract the monotony that can arise from constant repetition of the same syllables. We will discuss how the initial mechanical repetition turns, over time, into a devotional repetition with feeling. You will learn the practice of Mantra repetition while at work and throughout the day and how to turn the mantra into the background of all of our thoughts and mental activities. We will also explore the practice of Mantra writing, known as Likita Japa and how to incorporate it into your daily sadhana. We will conclude by exploring the practice of Purascharana, concentrated Japa meditation extended over a long period of time.

“Approached with faith and devotion, and carried out with perseverance, Japa is the most direct path to God-Realization” – Swami Vishnudevananda, Meditation and Mantras

Additional Information:

This program is offered live through Zoom webinar with the availability for students to interact through Q&A with the presenter.

For enrolled students, a video recording will be available after each class in the event you miss a class or would like to review the content.

It is possible to register and take the course at any time. You can catch up on any classes you miss with the recordings.

Requirements & Recommendations: 

• No experience necessary. This program is open to beginners as well as advanced practitioners.
• Viewing Device: Desktop or laptop computer will provide the best experience, although you can also connect via a tablet or smartphone.
• Internet connection: High-speed broadband wired or wireless is best.
• Video: Download Zoom to your computer, or install the Zoom app to your device.  For interactive group sessions, a webcam or integrated camera will allow others to feel more connected with you.
• Audio: Headphone speakers are recommended. If you wish to participate vocally, a headset with a microphone will be ideal.

Course Includes:

• 12 hours recorded sessions
• Course Manual