Chants & Mantras
MAN = spirit
TRA = protection
Mantras lead the mind to free itself from all activity and absorb itself in silence. This union of the mind with pure sound is considered by the Vedas (vision or knowledge) to be the highest form of yoga.
In Vinyasa Krama Yoga, the science of mantras is used in a subtle way, both in asanas and in pranayama, resulting in a sublime transformation of the quality of actions, and exceptional virtues for mind and body.
In Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, practice begins with an opening chant. This invocation prepares the space for your practice, and the mind for the right auspices. The practice ends with a closing chant, to maintain and direct the energy of the practice towards higher intentions.
OPENING MANTRA
Aum
Vande Gurunam charanaravinde
Sandarshita svatma sukava bodhe
Nishreyase jangalikayamane
Samara halahala mohashantyai​
Abahu purushakaram
Shankhachakrasi dharinam
Sahasra shirasam Shvetam
Pranamami Patanjalim
Aum
Om
Praise and adoration to the lotus feet of the gurus
for they reveal the happiness of the true Self
they are the refuge in the dark impenetrable forest of the mind
transforming poison and endless illusion into eternal peace
a tribute to the great sage Patañjali
who took the form of a luminous man
wielding a conch shell, a disc and a sword crowned by
a brilliant white cobra with a thousand heads
Om
CLOSING MANTRA
Aum
Swasti praja bhyah pari pala yantam
Nya yena margena mahi mahishaha
Go brahmanebhyaha shubamastu nityam
Lakaa samastha sukhino bhavantu
Aum
Shantih Shantih Shantih
Om
May humanity be well
May world leaders protect with justice
May those who know that the Earth is a sacred place be blessed
May all beings be happy and prosperous.
Om
peace peace peace