Mantra and the Yoga of Sri Hanuman with Dayasagar in Sydney, 4th August 2018

Join us for an authentic mantra chanting experience of the Sri Hanuman Chalisa at Manly Yoga.

There are many definitions of Mantra in the West. Essentially they are sounds/vibrations which are said to create an influence on the atmosphere both internally and externally, from gross to subtle. As such they are meant to be practiced and experienced, rather than being spoken about.

In a yoga class we can grasp the effect of asana practice because we have been working with the body, and the effects are tangible, however the influence of mantra is generally perceived initially at a more subtle level.

Sound is something that comes from within, and as we grow we learn language … words to express ourselves and communicate at an intellectual level

Dr Tomatis wrote, in his biography The Conscious Ear

“… by his very structure, man is a kind of receiving antenna of a self-expressive universe which reveals its real presence. Man is plunged into an apparently limitless environment, the true manifestation of an unfathomable presence, which everything reveals, which everything registers as its phenomeno-logical answer.

In short, and also to provoke reflection, I prefer to say that it is only God who speaks, and man exists to translate this message – very awkwardly it is true – into human language…” (Tomatis, 1991)

Mantra is said to be the unspoken language of the heart. As such how can the mind perceive? One way is to create a focus for our expression. Hanuman is the brave hero of the Ramayana. His absolute devotion to Rama facilitates a victory in the eternal battle between good and evil, which is waged on an inner level as well as the external manifestation.

Rama represents the “ideal” human, who follows dharma (the power which upholds the universe). Hanuman represents our courage and devotion – essentially our life energy devoted to God. “Courage” actually means “strength of heart”. It is said that when the name of Rama is even whispered, Hanuman is present.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• Asana and pranayama to enable comfortable sitting and expression.

• Ways to immerse ourselves in chanting – for the opportunity to learn and experience, and thereby gain our own understanding.

• How to chant the Sri Hanuman Chalisa and Sri Hanuman Astottara Namavalih

• Some stories of Sri Hanuman, to inspire and delight.

No previous experience required, all are welcome.

This workshop will be followed by the monthly program of chanting of Mahamrityunjaya Mantra with havan and kirtan.

Date: Saturday 4 August

Time: 1:30 pm – 4:40 pm

Cost: $60 / $55 Early Bird paid by 28 July

About the teacher

Swami Dayasagar has been a yoga practitioner and teacher for more than 35 years. The pathway of Natural Therapies led her to the system of yoga and to the Satyananda Ashram, in Australia and India, in the early 1980’s. Kirtan and chanting were an intrinsic part of ashram life.

Since returning to live in the broader community, Swami Dayasagar has continued to teach yoga classes and programs in her local area, and further afield by invitation. She gave a presentation at the Yoga Australia Conference in March this year on “Mantra as Sadhana for Yoga Teachers and Students”.

She has continued with kirtan and chant, and also delved into Hindustani Classical music as a student of raga (melody) and tabla (rhythm). These are a practical way to integrate head, heart and hands.