A mantra is a sacred sound, word, phrase, or syllable that is repeated or chanted either aloud or silently during meditation, prayer, or spiritual practice. Mantras are typically derived from ancient Sanskrit texts and are believed to have spiritual or transformative powers. They are used to focus the mind, deepen concentration, and invoke specific qualities or energies within oneself or the universe.
Ashtanga yoga is a formal style with distinctive features, including the use of Sanskrit Mantras. Apart from the Opening and Closing mantras, even the vinyasa numbers are counted in Sanskrit, adding a rhythmic and traditional aspect to the practice.
Conceptually, Ashtanga can be likened to an Epic Journey, divided into three distinct parts: The Opening, The Journey, and The Closing. In essence, the Opening serves as an homage to the past, the Journey reflects our present state (“How do you feel today”), and the Closing extends an offering to the world, ensuring the universal benefit of our practice.
The opening
At the outset, we recite the Opening Mantra, expressing gratitude to the lineage of teachers who have preserved yoga through the ages. We especially honor Sage Patanjali, credited with coining the term “Ashtanga” in the Yoga Sutra, an ancient text dating back 2500 years.
During my time as a student in India, I had the privilege of practicing yoga with Pattabhi Jois in the mornings and chanting the Yoga Sutra with Dr. Jayashree in the afternoons. Despite lacking proficiency in linguistics or singing, the chanting of Sanskrit held a special allure for me.
While Sanskrit is a refined language with precise pronunciation rules, I believe that chanting can convey profound meaning, even to those unfamiliar with Sanskrit.
I was delighted to discover that Dr. Jayashree has shared her recordings of the Yoga Sutra online. She begins with two mantras dedicated to Patanjali: the familiar Ashtanga Mantra (Vande Gurunam…) followed by another Patanjali Mantra used in the Iyengar lineage.
the journey
The Journey represents our personal exploration. How do we feel today? What is the state of our body, mind, and spirit? There are various approaches to practice, encompassing postures, breathwork, and self-inquiry. In Jayashree’s recording, she begins with the Invocation to Patanjali, followed by chanting the first book of the Yoga Sutra. The Yoga Sutra, essential for any yoga student, defines yoga as a system of meditation and enlightenment, outlining the steps on the path of yoga. While numerous translations exist, my favorite is by the Buddhist Scholar Chip Hartranft, appreciated for its concise approach. I am also grateful for the author’s upload of a PDF of the Yoga Sutra translation:
As Guruji used to say, the Yoga Sutras are “small words with big meaning.” I hope that you will find knowledge and inspiration by meditating on the Sutras!
The closing
The Closing mantra symbolizes the fruition of our efforts, akin to harvesting the fruits from a garden. Having invested time and energy in our practice, we now reap the benefits, not only for ourselves but also for others. Although there are fewer recordings of the closing mantra online, I found an old video of Pattabhi Jois instructing a group with the closing mantra in 2002.
Guruji Closing Mantra:
In addition to these downloads, I have lots of videos, podcasts, etc. on the internet. Have a look and let me know if anything is useful. Feel free to email or text me if you have any questions.
ashtangayogagroningen@gmail.com
WhatsApp: 644729763
See you on the mat,
Adarsh
Ashtanga Yoga Groningen 
Leave a comment