Sound and Silence
As a Vedic Chant teacher I am transmitting sounds that reach back to an ancient time: these chants or mantra-s having been given directly from teacher to student down to the present day.
The use of sound as a tool of yoga allows students to enjoy the benefits of yoga in a new way. Chanting can enrich a practice at both physical and mental levels. For some it is a form of deep meditation. It can be integrated into a practice through āsana - posture work or prāṇāyāma-breath work.
Alternatively it can be a discrete practice. The way it is applied will depend on the individual's practice and their particular inclinations.
Chanting is especially useful as a tool for therapy, chants may be used even when there is severe physical restriction and movement is limited. In some instances the most powerful form of chanting is mental or 'silent chant'.
If you have practised yoga - but not experienced mantra - an afternoon session where chants are incorporated with other techniques, will allow even complete beginners, to experience its effects. Sound workshops work with different energies to affect varying responses in the body. These are held throughout the year.
"I first came to Celeste when I could barely walk after foot surgery. Physiotherapy was helping a little, but I was still in great discomfort, and the rest of my body was suffering also. From the very first session, Celeste took the time to understand my specific issues — not just the injury itself, but how much time I had, what my body could manage, and what I needed emotionally as well as physically.
She created a tailored therapeutic yoga practice that suited my exact situation, and the difference it made was remarkable. Over time, the improvement was fantastic. Eighteen months on, I still practise yoga twice a day and see Celeste regularly. I honestly can’t imagine living without yoga now.
Although I first came for help with my foot, I’ve long since moved past that stage — thankfully — and now follow yoga simply as a way of life. I’m fitter, more mobile, and more in tune with my body than I’ve ever been, and I truly believe this will keep me active well into my later years. Celeste’s holistic approach was exceptional when I needed it most, and her ongoing guidance continues to be invaluable.
I cannot recommend her highly enough." Nicola P.
Next Sound Workshop coming in Autumn
Online chanting group
Saturday chant sessions 1400 - 1430 in 2025
28th June - 9th August
A group formed originally during the Pandemic, members continue their chant practice in informal and relaxed sessions, which are free.
If you'd like to join drop me an email and I will send the zoom link.
The Potency of Sound
The use of sound within the tradition of Krishnamacharya originates with the Vedas, an ancient collection of Sanskrit works created over a period of time. These texts were the preserve of certain lineages and traditionally communicated down the male line. In the last century Krishnamacharya is credited with restoring the practice of chanting to women.
For those students who wish to explore chanting either as part of their yoga practice, or to delve deeper into Vedic chant, I suggest that one to one tuition is the most effective way to do this.
Individual chanting lessons are available online using Skype or Zoom for those who do not live locally.
"Feeling overweight, lethargic, immobile and frankly unhealthy, I was looking to an alternative to the mindless repetitions in the gym. I wanted to find flexibility and energy and was searching for something that would engage something deeper in me as well as attend to the body. In Celeste I found a competent teacher who is able to guide me to attend to each of these. I find the sessions help a great deal. As a busy professional the sessions and instruction have given me greater flexibility in body and mind." Peter C.