How long have you been practicing Kirtan?
I have been chanting since I was 17, which was a long time ago. I chanted Om Mani Padme Hum. I think I might have learned that chant from “Be Here Now” by Ram Dass. I began to sing Kirtan, or practice devotional singing, about four years ago.
What brought you to Kirtan in the first place?
About four years ago, I attended a Krishna Das retreat at Breitenbush Hot Springs. As I mentioned, I had been chanting for many years, but this was totally different. The more I sang, the happier I got. I actually felt confused because I had been meditating for many years; and after a few hours of singing Kirtan, I felt I had gone deeper into my own inner stillness than ever before.
Who are your past and present teachers? Major influences/inspirations?
Krishna Das was my first inspiration. After the Breitenbush retreat, I was blessed to attend a Kirtan with him and Ram Dass for six days in Maui. I have been singing Kirtan every day since then. I would include Gina Sala as my mentor. She taught me my first songs on the harmonium. And she encouraged me share my Kirtan with others. Heather and Benji Wertheimer of Shantala have been good friends, teaching me songs and answering my endless questions. More recently, I would say Jai Uttal has inspired me. I studied with him for 9 days in the summer of 2008, and it will be years before I assimilate all that I learned. Lolo Woods, the divine Lolo Woods, has been a true friend and a mentor. And I have other friends too numerous to mention, Tashi and Joy come to mind, who have supported me and encouraged me. But above all, I would say the beautiful people who attend the Kirtans I am privileged to host are my best teachers. But my most wonderful teacher of all is woman named Joan.
How long have you been teaching? How would you describe your teaching method?
I have hosted a meditation class for six years. I have gradually been introducing Kirtan in the meditations. I would call my style of Kirtan unorthodox. I sing Blues influenced chants in English, for example. I used to play harmonica in a Blues band. Also, I stress that these chants will work regardless of what we believe. We can be devoted to Shiva or be devoted to the void of the Buddhists. Either way, these chants will bring about a deep sense of inner calmness. Actually, I think our beliefs can be the main roadblocks to our happiness.
Do you practice any related disciplines? Tell us about them.
I practice a form of kundalini that I learned from my friend and teacher Sri Mumtaz Ali. I am by no means an expert. As for Yoga, I dream about being limber, but so far I am as stiff as frozen board.
Activities you enjoy outside of teaching and practicing yoga.
I love ecstatic dancing! Also, I am a writer. I recently had a book published called, “Letters to My Friends: A No Guarantees Guide to Awakening.” And soon a companion CD should be done.
Favorite quotes?
My Dad once said, “John, if you want others to take you seriously, then don’t take yourself too seriously.”
Anything else you want to say?
I am grateful to be a member of the Yoga Shala family.