Kirtan-O-Rama! October 19, 2007

Chanting (Kirtan) is a part of the path of Devotional Yoga. It opens the inner eye of the heart. It cleans the mirror of the heart so it can clearly reflect what is already within us.

About Kirtan:

Kirtan, also known as sankirtan, is typically chanted in a call and response format in which the leader sings a phrase and the group sings it back over and over again. The energy and pace of the chant builds according to the inspiration of the moment as the mind quiets and the heart begins to soar.

The singing is accompanied by the ancient musical raga musical tradition with a rhythmic drumming style that transports the chanters to profound spiritual realms. In its religious fervor, it has been likened to modern American Gospel music, and in its heartfelt expression it compares to profound states of deep meditation.

Although the kirtan involves music, the underlying art of kirtan chanting is not actually about musical ability or training- It is about the heart! Everyone can participate, regardless of age or cultural background. The purpose of this music is to get us out of our heads and into our hearts. Typically, the songs can last for 20-30 minutes each with a few moments of silence in between each song so you can soak it all up. The longer songs allow for deeper experience of the effects, and with the simple, repetitive lyrics (it's a chant, after all!) we really don't have to think much about the words.

Those from all traditions are welcome to attend and to co-create with us.

RSVP *****

Place: The Zen Center
308 Page Street
San Francisco, CA 94102

Date: Fri, 20th April 2007

Time: 7:00 - 8:30 PM

The Kirtan is followed by a potluck dinner. So bring in a Veggie ONLY Dish!

Official Website: http://secure.artofliving.org/event_details.aspx?event_id=298