Do you sing? Perhaps you’ve been busting out a few Christmas songs recently. My daughter and I are both keen choir members and the house has been filled with voices rehearsing for carol concerts, parties and numerous other Christmas gatherings.
A common theme in many Christmas songs is ‘Peace and Goodwill’ and, as all yogis know, peace and goodwill isn’t limited to Christmas. Whatever your religious or spiritual beliefs, celebrating the universal values of peace, harmony and love are central to the practice of yoga.
My Christmas gift to you this year is a song of peace. I’ve recorded a very simple mantra that you can use over the holiday period to stay mindful of cultivating peace and compassion. The words are in Sanskrit, but don’t freak out. It’s simple and easy to follow. You can hear the recording by clicking the link below and the words are:
LOKHA SAMASTAH SUKHINO BHAVANTU
"May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may my own thoughts, words, and actions contribute to the happiness and freedom of all."
Listen here: Lokha Samastha Sukhino Bhavantu 2015
For me, this is the true meaning of Christmas. Doing everything we can to contribute to the wellbeing of others, whether that’s sending heartfelt wishes for peace to stepping up and lending a hand wherever it’s needed.
I hope you enjoy chanting the mantra, and that you and your family enjoy a very merry, and deeply peaceful, Christmas and New Year season.
Lots of Love
Nik x