UNIVERSAL CHANTING

UNIVERSAL CHANTING

Let the power of sound and vibration release you from your worldly concerns and physical discomforts. Chanting, or repetitive song, is part of almost every spiritual tradition. Also known as kirtan, bhajan, and "singing with heart," chanting is a form of bhakti, or devotional yoga. These chants, coming from many traditions, contain a transformative power and healing energy. Through our voices we join a stream of consciousness, emotion, and devotion that has been flowing for centuries. We share the joy of making inspirational music together.  We are delighted to say that no previous singing experience or skill is needed!

Akal Dev Sharonne will teach a yoga class and lead an evening of the Dances of Universal Peace (Sufi Dances) during the retreat.

Silence is maintained outside the meditation hall during the course of daily activities, including meals, and through the night. In addition to chanting, there will be times for sitting meditation, walking meditation, and rest.

Jon Seskevich (voice, harmonium, percussion) has led monthly Universal Chanting sessions in the Raleigh/Durham/Chapel Hill area for over 20 years. He is a nurse specializing in stress management and has been involved in research with meditation, prayer, touch therapy, and music. His chanting mentors have included Ram Dass, Krishna Das, Jai Uttal, and Robert Gass.

Mark Smith (voice, guitar) has had forty years experience with the music and healing qualities of chants and songs from many traditional and contemporary sources. He leads singing at churches, retreats, and social action gatherings and works as a civil/environmental engineer.

Jon and Mark are co-founders of the Universal Chanting Group in North Carolina.