From Ancient Chants to Stretchy Pants – the Journey of Yoga and its remarkable effect on our Wellbeing.
“The success of yoga does not lie in the ability to perform postures, but in how it positively changes the way we live our life and our relationships.” -TKV Desikachar.
Yoga has become a key part of Western popular culture and alternative health regimes, but the origin of this sacred spiritual practice goes back for centuries. Developed in India over 5,000 years ago, the early writings on yoga were inscribed on the fragile palm leaves destroyed or lost in the passage of time.
Contemporary yoga, as we know it today was brought to the West by T. Krishnamacharya, the man known as “the father of modern yoga”. Among most contemporary styles of yoga, many trace their roots back to this man, whose teachings remain the inspiration for thousands of yoga practitioners around the world. Whether it was for wellbeing, fitness, healing or as part of a spiritual quest, T Krishnamacharya managed to give every seeker of yoga and yoga therapy exactly what they sought. An acclaimed master of Asana, Pranayama and Dhyanam techniques, T Krishnamacharya was a prolific writer and orator, one of the pioneers of adapting yoga techniques for therapy, and adept in Vedic chanting.
His son and devoted student, TKV Desikachar was known for his straightforward and pragmatic approach, demystifying yoga philosophy. He was fundamental in pioneering the area of wellness and yoga therapy that we benefit from today. He was a master healer and spiritual guide. Known for his generosity of teaching and sharing, TKV Desikachar’s landmark book, “The Heart of Yoga” remains a bestseller to this day.
“However powerful or disturbing something may appear to be, it is our reaction to it that determines its effects” – TKV Desikachar.
At The Sound Temple, we hold many events throughout the year that honour this ancient spiritual practice. Join us once a month, for the deeply nourishing experience of Vedic Chant for Health and Wellbeing. Chant sets up a vibration throughout the entire body and is a powerful tool of yoga that promotes health, strength and vitality. It encourages stronger and more nourishing breathing, improved emotional stability, better memory, increased physical stability, energy and confidence.
Alternatively, enjoy the uplifting and resounding atmosphere of devotional singing during our Kirtan family nights. Building a strong sense of community and expression of heartfelt love, these nights will warm you up, inside and out.