Chanting has been an integral part of the practice of yoga since the tradition began many hundreds of years ago. This practice is a key component of Bhakti Yoga, the yoga of devotion. So much of the kirtan and mantra chants presented in some yoga classes call upon Hindu deities.These chants are inspiring and evocative for those they resonate with, but they may exclude yogis committed to different religions or to non-religion. In the spirit of inclusion, here are five traditional chants that don’t refer to specific deities.
Sauca, purity, is one of the fundamental principles of yoga. Ancient yogis maintainedsauca by practicing a number ofkriyas, cleansing techniques. Through a modern lens, some of these practices may seem extreme—such as sliding a rope up your nostril, through your nasal sinus, and out your mouth! In the spirit of moderation and non-violence, here are some starter versions of commonly practicedkriyas.
