Allow yourself to settle in for a soul-stirring session of community singing with an emphasis on both ancient chant and modern melodies.

Chanting breaks down the difference between the inside and the outside. It’s about having a heart that never shuts down, that nothing can shut down.” —Krishna Das

Kirtan combines music and mantra and can be an effortless and joyful way to meditate. For those who find seated meditation difficult, a singing meditation can be just the ticket. Music bypasses the thinking mind, the worried mind, and goes straight to that part of the brain where the emotions reside. The musical meditation of kirtan soothes the nervous system, just like a yoga class. Both are easy and fun. Kirtan calms the mind without struggling to concentrate.

Kirtan as a practice dates back thousands of years, and has its roots in the universal tradition of community song. Our kirtan has its roots in India so many of the songs are sung in Sanskrit, the oldest of the Indo-European languages and the language of yoga and mantra. Most often, a singer leads the chant call-and-response style—so there is no need for you to learn or memorize Sanskrit! They will sing out a line and the audience sings it back. At other times songs are sung in unison. Kirtan is a bit like singing around a yogic campfire—creating feelings of oneness and joy. When the music stops, the mind is silent and calm. Ahhh bliss!

Kirtan is a community gathering for all interested guests, staff, and volunteers. All you need to bring is yourself. Singing is welcomed, however, if you prefer you can simply soak in the atmosphere.

Wednesday–Saturday 7:30–8:15 pm; Saturday kirtan is held outdoor by the bonfire; weather permitting.