The wait is finally over! I have been wanting to attend this chant group, Satsang Kirtan, that meets monthly in Birmingham for months and months. I've been teaching Foundations of Practice, Heartwood Yoga's ongoing beginner series, since the Fall of last year and the two happen on the same night, sadly leading me to believe I could not attend.
But, miraculously, John is teaching this 6-week series and I had last night free. Joy! There were 14 people in attendance, and we had so much fun. We began with intentional breathing and a small amount of movement, followed by a statement of intentions from the group leader, brief introductions and a few warm-up rounds of Om.
Each chant was pronounced and then explained; paper copies were provided as reference. Some were traditional Indian chants, others were simple prayers sung in English - all in call and response format. Aside from our voices, we were mostly a percussive crowd, banging and clanging on whatever we brought or were invited to use upon arrival. There was a break about 45 minutes into the kirtan in which we stood and did a few standing exercises for the body, mind and spirit. One participant suggested a series of light-hearted positive statements be told, with conviction, to each other's neighbor and after laughing our way through several statements, the room was agog for the chanting to continue.
On we sang and drummed, finally winding down around 9pm. After sitting quietly for a few moments, we began talking and milling about. I saw a few faces that were familiar to me, and they turned out to be old friends that I hadn't seen or spoken with in years. I met a couple of other yoga teachers from around town and the feeling of community was warm and comfortable.
This group meets at the Pink House in the Forest Park neighborhood of Birmingham on the first Wednesday of each month, from 7:30-8:30(ish)pm. I have been assured that punctuality is not required and to show up if and when you can. Donations are appreciated for the use of the space.
Note: Next month's kirtan will be held at an earlier time because it is open to families and they want the kiddies to experience the kirtan with respect to their lil bedtimes.
Let me know if you'd like more information about this group. I'd be happy to share my new friends!
Shanti,
Lauren
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