Awaken The Heart Through Chanting & Mantras

In this introductory session, we’ll begin our exploration of mantra, and explore the mystery and wonder of the heart. We’ll also look at the global epidemic of loneliness and depression, and see why teachings on love and compassion are more important than ever. We’ll conclude with a short meditation and invocation to set the foundation for our course.

Session Two will illuminate the different paths of yoga, including bhakti—the path of love. We’ll explore the essential teachings of Sanātana Dharma (the Eternal Path, commonly referred to as Hinduism), the Bhakti Movement, and the wisdom of the poet-saints. From there, we’ll immerse ourselves in a restful soundscape with the mantras Ma and Om.

Session Three will explore the transformative power of chanting. We’ll learn about the Kali Yuga, the Dark Age of Materialism, and why chanting is considered one of the most helpful practices for our current era. We’ll also learn about mantras and some beneficial ways to use them. For our practice, we’ll take a musical journey into the Tibetan mantra Om Mani Padme Hum.

In Session Four, we’ll look at various forms of japa (mantra repetition)—spoken, whispered, silent, and written. We’ll also learn about different types of prayer beads, the significance of the number 108, and how to choose a mantra. From there, we’ll experience a japa practice set to music with the beloved mantra Om Namah Shivaya.

Session Five will introduce the concept of sacred remembrance, also known as smarana. We’ll contemplate the connection between love and concentration, learn how to cultivate more awareness in daily life, and explore the value of satsang. We’ll also consider the “guru principle” and the role of the teacher. For our practice, we’ll sing the Adi mantra—Ong Namo Gurudev Namo—from the Kundalini Yoga tradition to honor the divine teacher within.

Session Six will explore how chanting can help us meet the shadow, transform uncomfortable emotions, and embrace our full humanity. We’ll also touch on the process of purification and the power of prayer. We will then invoke the blessings of Green Tara, the “mother of liberation”, through her mantra Om Tare Tuttare Ture Svaha.

In Session Seven we will look at the habitual ways we keep love at bay and consider Zen master Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings on the inner child. From there, we’ll experience an English chant and forgiveness meditation to heal the heart. The focus of this session will be self-acceptance—an essential foundation for awakening universal love.

Session Eight will explore the timeless presence that lives within us—the witness. We’ll learn about wabi-sabi, the Japanese art of imperfection, and the Buddhist doctrine of the “two truths”. We’ll also learn about abstract nirguna mantras and Vedantic formulas that affirm our oneness with all of creation. Through the formless mantra So Hum, we will rest in the deep silence on the other side of sound.

In Session Nine we will contemplate compassion and service as integral components on the path of love. We’ll also reflect on the Mahayana Buddhist teaching known as the Jewel Net of Indra and consider emerging research on neuroscience and meditation. We’ll discuss the practice of bodhicitta (“awakened heart”) and karma yoga, and conclude with a mantra for the happiness of all beings.

In our final session, we will focus on gratitude and the Buddhist teaching of ‘precious human birth’. We’ll also consider the importance of positive emotions and how chanting can help us cultivate more gratitude and appreciation. Reflecting on all that we’ve learned, the course will end with the traditional Gaelic blessing “Deep Peace”—a heartfelt prayer for you.