I really enjoyed this chat with the lovely David/ Sri Prana, covering  all things chanting, kirtan and bhajan, how harmoniums were introduced  to India by German missionaries, the sound Om and its meaning, and his  experience as a devotee of Amma the hugging saint.

David has been following the path of yoga for over 40 years. He  practices and teaches Integral (Poorna) Yoga. David is also a Bowen  Therapist and combines Yoga Therapy with Bowen to help clients in a wide  range of physical and mental health areas.

David’s yogic learning, practice and teaching is influenced by the  classical teachings from many sources including Paramahansa Yogananda,  Swami Satyananda, Swami Gitananda and those masters who emphasise  spiritual development and yogic lifestyle. He also studied yoga with Dr  Savitri Devi of New Zealand.

David is a devotee of the Bhakti master, Mata Amritandamayi, better  known throughout the world as Amma – the hugging saint. David was chosen  by Amma to teach her Integrated Amrita Meditation in South Australia.  He has been regular visitor to her ashram in Kerala and also has  travelled extensively throughout many areas of India. David has a strong  interest in Yoga history and philosophy.

David plays harmonium, guitar and sings bhajans (devotional chants).  He began this part of his Bhakti Yoga journey using only guitar but  during his first India experience he bought a harmonium and while  staying in Rishikesh taught himself to play the harmonium. David has  been holding regular kirtans in Adelaide over a number of years. He now  holds monthly kirtans at his Yoga studio in Myponga. Participants are  asked to make a spiritual donation which goes to support 4 charities.  These are Hutt St Centre for the Homeless, Catherine House for Homeless  Women, Smith Family and Fred Hollows Foundation.

David offers chanting and harmonium lessons to people who are interested in bringing the joy of Kirtan into their lives.

David is passionate about sharing his knowledge of yoga and enjoys  helping others discover how the rich textured layers of yoga practice  can be integrated into daily life.

Show notes www.shantisound.com.au/podcast