Whenever I reflect on yoga, I find myself coming back to a simple question:
What does yoga actually mean?
Today, yoga is often associated with movement, flexibility and physical wellbeing.
And of course, all of those things can be valuable.
But the original meaning of yoga goes much deeper.
Yoga is about connection.
Reconnection.
Bringing together what has become separated.
And perhaps that is something many of us are searching for.
Because even in a world where we are more connected than ever through technology, it is still possible to feel deeply disconnected.
Disconnected from ourselves.
Disconnected from others.
Disconnected from a deeper sense of meaning and purpose.
The ancient yogic tradition invites us to look beneath all the roles, responsibilities and experiences that fill our lives.
To ask whether there is something deeper within us.
Something more constant.
Something that isn’t defined entirely by what we do, what we own or how other people see us.
Yoga, in its deepest sense, becomes a journey of reconnecting with that inner reality and ultimately with something higher.
For me, kirtan has always been one of the most beautiful expressions of yoga.
Through sacred sound, something begins to shift.
The mind can become quieter.
The heart can become softer.
And for a few moments, we can simply become present.
So perhaps the question isn’t:
How flexible am I?
Maybe the deeper questions are:
What am I connected to?
And perhaps even more importantly:
Am I creating space in my life to reconnect with what truly matters?
Because the deepest form of yoga isn’t necessarily something we practise for an hour and then leave behind.
It can become a way of living.
A way of remembering who we are.
A way of remembering what we are connected to.
And perhaps that is where yoga really begins.
Jagannātha Dās
Come and Experience It
If these reflections resonate with you, why not come and experience kirtan for yourself?
Every Friday, we come together at OMNOM Birmingham for an evening of mantra, music, meditation and community. I also share kirtan at retreats, festivals and gatherings throughout the year.
Whether you’ve experienced kirtan many times or you’re completely new, you’re warmly welcome.
See all upcoming events:
https://jagannathadas.com/events
Continue the Journey
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