Program Type: Online Course

Date & Time: Offered as 6 weekly sessions on Mondays, Jan 11, 18, 25, Feb 1, 8, 15 12:00-1:30pm EST

Hours: 9 hours

Course Description:

This course is a thoughtful blend of mantra theory and its various benefits, as well as the practice of chanting. As you find yourself deepening your practice and understanding through the principles of Mantra, the mind and heart will shift and open to positivity, peace, and beyond.

One definition of a mantra is “mystical energy encased in a sound structure.” To release its energy, you learn to repeat the mantra with intention and specific rhythm. The repetition of the mantra is referred to as “Japa.” Swami Sivananda said that “Japa purifies the heart and steadies the mind.”

When you use mantra repetition, or Japa, as a practice, it elevates your vibration, releases negativity from the mind, opens the heart, and allows you to live with more inner peace and joy.

Swami Sivananda referred to Japa as “spiritual food,” and said that “Japa gives supreme peace, health, wealth, strength, and long life.”

This course is designed for those who wish to cultivate inner peace through the use of mantras and chanting. No prior experience is necessary to receive benefit from these profound practices, and if you do have experience, this is a wonderful opportunity to deepen your practice.

What you’ll learn:

• Different types of mantras and their meaning
• Techniques for the practice of Mantra repetition
• Mantra Chanting – Sankirtan and Bahajan (devotional songs) and how to overcome inhibitions with the practice
• Mantra Meditation
• Likita Japa

Course structure:

• Each session will be 90 minutes
• 20-30 minutes of each session will be dedicated to chanting
• 45 minutes of theory of Mantra and its practices
• 10 minutes to Q & A
• A few minutes for recommendations of practices in between classes

The objective of the course is understanding and experiencing one of the most powerful practices in yoga for spiritual evolution.  Participating in this course is creating “satsanga,” which is being in the presence of like-minded people who strive to deepen their sense of peace, joy and spiritual growth.

During the course, you will be able to communicate directly with Swami Hridyananda for questions concerning the practices.

Course Contents:

Week 1

• Opening chants
• Introduction to the topic of the course and the goal of the practices of Japa and Sankirtan
• The main paths of yoga and the place of Japa and Sankirtan within them
• What is Japa
• What is Sankirtan
• Who are these practices suitable for
• Japa and Sankirtan as most practical practices for our time
• Best time and place for the practices
• Chanting
• Final prayers

Week 2

• Opening mantras
• What is Bahjan
• Creating a supportive environment for the practice
• Six parts of a mantra
• Four levels of sound
• Chanting
• Final prayer

Week 3

• Opening chant
• What is Likita Japa
• Practice of Likita Japa
• Different mantras and their meaning
• Mantra initiation and its purpose
• How to choose a Mantra
• How to deepen your connection (if you have been initiated into a Mantra)
• Japa meditation practice
• Chanting
• Final prayers

Week 4

• How to incorporate the practice of Mantra repetition and chanting in daily life
• Why and how to use a Japa mala to benefit the practice
• Likita Japa practice
• What is Satsang (being in the presence of truth, being in the presence of elated souls, being in the presence of like-minded people who aspire to grow spiritually)
• How to create Satsanga and invite/join others in the practice of chanting
• Chanting

Week 5

• Japa meditation
• Likita Japa practice
• Introduction to the Shanti Mantras
• Introducing more chants and Bahajans

Week 6

• Bhajan – devotional singing
• How did Swami Sivananda practice Japa and Sankirtan
• Guidance to aspirants from Swami Sivananda
• Questions & answers about any of the topics
• Chanting
• Final prayers

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:

• 9 hours on-demand video