The Sacred Sound of Sanskrit
An introduction to Chanting with Sheela Shankar
Saturday, 5 July '25 1pm – 4:30pm BST
Zoom - Online
How many of us begin our yoga practice with an opening Mantra; but do we know what it means?
Maybe we attend regular counted classes, but we aren’t sure why Sanskrit numbers matter! Perhaps you aren't taking a regular yoga practice but have an interest in chanting ,or the beautiful sound of chanting, or would like to take a journey into the Sanskrit Language and would like to understand more.
Join us on-line for this tailored, engaging and highly interactive session looking at the transformative qualities in this sacred and beautiful language.

The session will provide context on the evolution of the Sanskrit language, why its important, and the healing properties contained within it, as well as looking at why we chant sacred texts, and how the Sadhana of chanting can transform our minds, and ultimately ourselves.
MEET YOUR TEACHER
Sheela Shankar
Sheela Shankar is a student of T.K.V. Desikachar. She has undergone the 2-year teacher training Diploma in Yoga at the Krishnamacharya Yoga Mandiram, along-side her husband Ravi, was involved in the production of the journal Darsanam. She was one of TKV Desikachar’s foremost teachers of Vedic Chanting and is also a trained classical singer in both the Carnatic and the Hindustani tradition.
Currently, Sheela teaches Vedic chanting from her home in Chennai, and around the world via zoom, and a range of in-person retreats and trainings.
She has an infectious passion for her art and an accessible, gentle teaching style, brought to life with so many personal stories and experiences of her studies and beyond. Her teachings are inclusive, and open to all; whether you’re a complete beginner, or an experienced student of the Sanskrit language.
PLEASE NOTE THIS SESSION IS ON-LINE ONLY
The entire afternoon will be recorded, and everyone who books—whether they attend live or not—will receive a copy of the recording. The recording will be yours to keep and use in your practice, and it will be available for around two months.
Session One
1 PM to 2.30 PM.
An introduction to chanting:
This session will examine the philosophy of Sanskrit, its evolution, and the attributes that make the language, and the sounds that underpin it, before moving on to practical Vedic chants for students to hear and try for themselves.
The session will contain philosophy and Sanskrit theory, as well as exploring some healing chants for you to use in your own practice. Students have the option to chant and receive feedback from Sheela, or to remain on mute and listen/practice for themselves.
Session Two
3 PM to 4.30 PM:
Prayers and Practice; exploring the Ashtanga Yoga Mantras.
Continuing from session 1, this second interactive session will contain more knowledge and practice, and will use as its foundation, the opening and closing prayers used in the Ashtanga yoga system.
Sheela will break down the prayers to aid students with pronunciation, and look at the profound meaning and beauty of these prayers, so that they come to life for us and add colour and depth to our practice. This session will offer further opportunities to be heard and practice your chanting for those who wish, though this is optional.
The full afternoon will be recorded and all attendees will receive a copy of the recording to keep and use in their practice.
You will receive a confirmation email for your booking and within that you will find your zoom link.
Its lovely to be able to see you, but its also also to have your camera off if you prefer
Payments are non refundable but are transferrable to another individual - should you wish to take this option please contact us
