Origin and Evolution of Yoga

In this workshop, we are going to take a trip through history to explore the ancient origins of Yoga, understand if Yoga is a philosophy, religion or science, take a quick glance at the evolution of different Yogic schools, admire some classical works on Yoga, get familiar with different approaches to Yoga, say 'Namaste' to some Ascended Yogis of ancient as well as modern times, and meet and greet some Yogic figures in the West to complete our journey. All you need for this lovely trip is an open heart and an inquisitive mind.

BhagavadGita: Secrets of skillful living for modern times

BhagavadGita is a perennial source of practical wisdom for life. Gita teaches us how to be deeply invested in life and at the same time transcend it too. In Gita, we find transformational wisdom about the simplest aspect of life to the most sublime. From what kind of food to eat all the way to highest Vedanta philosophy. No important aspect of life is left untouched by Gita. Over thousands of years, Gita has guided millions of seekers in their quest to balance spiritual aspirations and societal obligations, contribute their best to the community and lead the most fulfilling lives. BhagavadGita can be an interesting historical document, intriguing philosophical work, instructional manual for how to live life as well as the best self-help book ever written, depending on how one approaches it. Gita teaches how man can attain perfection both as a spiritual being and societal being and leave his indelible footprint in the sands of Time. The wisdom of Gita is indeed worth a life-time of study, for it shows man how to soar to Divine heights by drawing energy from spiritual practices as well as worldly responsibilities, just as a bird draws strength from both its wings for its flight.

Ram Vakkalanka is going to present BhagavadGita in all its aspects - its historical background, its relevance to today's society, its philosophical aspects and its practical wisdom. He will reveal some of the wonderful  secrets embedded in this ancient text that will simply ‘wow’ you. Regardless of one’s level of familiarity with the text, everyone will find something to take home.

We will also chant some of the sacred verses of BhagavadGita to get a taste of its vibrational energy.

Revitalize yourself thru Kirtan and Bhakti Yoga

Mantras are Sacred Vibrations that embody specific energies of the Universe. Chanting Mantras attracts the Cosmic Energies, channels them inward and ignites corresponding energies inside the practitioner. Mantras help energize and center ourselves, calm the negative chatter of the mind, deal with addictions, improve self-image, break through obstacles in life and induce inner peace and harmony. Mantra chanting promotes concentration and leads to deep states of meditation. In this workshop, we will learn about the various Cosmic Energies, called ‘Devatas’, and accurate pronunciation of some energizing Mantras. This workshop involves music but no musical training is necessary for participants.

You can see a program of Kirtan with Ram here.

Ram will also share some practical tips about one's personal Mantra practice.

The Sacred Vibrations of Sanskrit - Kindling the Inner Energy

Sanskrit is an eternal, vibrant language of ancient origins. Sanskrit is a collection of the subtle vibrations of the Cosmic Energies. Ancient Yogis perceived the subtle vibrations of the Universe in deep meditative states and organized them into Sanskrit language. Chanting and contemplating upon Sanskrit sounds is very energizing and helps in attuning oneself to Cosmic Consciousness. Sanskrit is Yoga in language-form. Practice of Sanskrit opens channels for the flow of subtle, vibrational energies thru the mind just as practice of Yoga opens channels for the flow of energy thru the body. Sanskrit is a powerful, transformative Yogic tool that calms the movements of thought, induces a meditative state and gently carries the restless mind to quiescence. Learning Sanskrit can be a fun, fulfilling experience and adds richness and authenticity to the yogic lifestyle. This workshop covers four aspects of this wonderful language:

1. Basic spoken Sanskrit
2. Accurate and authentic pronunciation of some energizing Mantras and chants
3. Meaning and authentic pronunciation of Sanskrit names of popular Yoga poses
4. Intro to Sanskrit alphabet, their experiential basis in the body of the practitioner

Puja - connecting with the inner Divinity

Puja is a form of kinetic Meditation that combines the powerful practices of Mantra, Mudra and visual Meditation. Even though Puja is originally a Bhakti Yoga practice, its practice can be seen in Tantra, Buddhism and many other traditions across the world. Puja looks like an external ritual but is actually a heart-based internal practice that elevates the practitioner to higher levels of consciousness. In this workshop, we will learn how to connect with the Divine inside through Puja, various steps involved in the Puja and participate in a Puja to Ganesha, the remover of obstacles.

Ram will also share practical tips about how one can perform a Puja oneself. Please download his puja guide and steps here.

Join us for an energizing community celebration!