Kaivalyadhama

Nada Yoga - A Science of Primordial Sound

Befriend your body and bring back the joy of living

7th to 13th July 2024
(Check-in: 7th July
Check-out: 14th July)

13th to 20th October 2024
(Check-in: 13th October
Check-out: 20th October)

by Dr. Santosh Pandey
14th to 19th April 2025
(Check-in: 13th April
Check-out: 20th April)

Exploring the Depths of Nada: A Workshop for Advanced Practitioners

Nada, the profound exploration of sound as a spiritual practice, is an ancient yogic technique that has been revered for its ability to transcend the mind and lead practitioners to a higher state of consciousness. This workshop aims to delve deep into the intricacies of Nada, drawing from classical yogic texts and incorporating detailed meditation practices, Pranayama, and visualization techniques.

The Essence of Nada

Nada, or the exploration of inner sound, is more than just an auditory experience. It is a meditative practice that utilizes sound to purify the mind, harmonize the body, and connect with the divine. The workshop is structured to guide participants through a journey that begins with basic sound meditation and advances to deeper, more intricate practices involving Pranayama and visualization.

Workshop Outline and Key Practices

  1. Preparation and Posture:
    • Asana and Alignment: Participants will be guided to sit in a comfortable and steady posture (Sam Asan Asinah Samakayo Yathasukham). The importance of maintaining an erect body and a relaxed yet alert state will be emphasized.
    • Gaze and Focus: Practitioners will learn to fix their gaze on the tip of their nose (Svanasagrakritekshanah), aiding in concentration and mind control.
  2. Pranayama Techniques:
    • Puraka, Kumbhaka, and Rechaka: The workshop will cover the purification of the Prana pathways through inhalation (Puraka), retention (Kumbhaka), and exhalation (Rechaka). Gradual practice of these techniques will help participants gain control over their senses and mind (Pranasya Shodhayen Margam).
  3. Omkara Meditation:
    • Sound of Om: Participants will engage in the continuous chanting of Om, resembling the sound of a bell or the hum of a bee (Hridyavichchinnamomkaram Ghantanadam Bisonravat). This sound meditation will be integrated with breath control to deepen the practice.
    • Union with Prana: By merging the Prana with the sound of Om, participants will practice this ten times, three times a day, leading to mastery over Prana within a month (Pranameva Samabhyaset).
  4. Heart Lotus Visualization:
    • Inner Visualization: The heart lotus (Hrit-Pundarika) will be visualized within, facing downwards with its stalk upwards. This will be meditated upon as an upward-facing, eight-petaled lotus (Hritpundarikamantastham).
    • Sun, Moon, and Fire Placement: Participants will learn to place the sun, moon, and fire one after another in the central core of the lotus, focusing on the divine form within the fire (Karnikayam Nyetsuryasomagninut-tarottaram).
  5. Divine Form Meditation:
    • Detailed Visualization: The workshop will guide participants through a detailed visualization of the divine form, focusing on each aspect, from the serene face to the various adornments and symbols (Samam Prashantam Sumukham, Shankha Chakra Gadapadma).
    • Mind and Senses Control: Practitioners will learn to withdraw their senses from external objects and direct their mind towards the divine, achieving a deep state of meditation (Indriyaniindriyar-thebhyah Manasa Krishya Tanmanah).
  6. Concentration and Dissolution:
    • Single-pointed Concentration: Participants will practice concentrating the all-pervading mind in one place, focusing on the divine’s smiling face (Sarvavyapakam Chittam).
    • Void Meditation: The mind will then be directed towards the sky or void, eventually relinquishing all focus to achieve a state of thoughtlessness (Chittam Akashye Vyo-mni Dharayet).
  7. Union with the Divine:
    • Self-Realization: The ultimate goal of the workshop is to guide participants to perceive the divine Self within, realizing the Self as the all-pervading light and essence of everything (Mamevaatmanam Atmani Vichashte).
    • Attainment of Nirvana: Through intense meditation, practitioners will transcend material illusions and attain Nirvana, achieving liberation from the cycle of birth and death (Dhyane-nettham Sutivre-na Yunjato Yogino Manah).

Nada, also known as Nāda Yoga or the Yoga of sound, is a practice of meditating upon sound vibrations. The Bhagavata Purana, particularly the 11th Canto, 14th Chapter, verses 32-46, provides a profound insight into this form of meditation. Here’s a summary of these teachings:

Verses 32-36: The Essence of Nāda

  • Verse 32: The importance of controlling the mind and senses to progress in meditation is emphasized.
  • Verse 33: It describes how a practitioner should focus on the sound (Nāda) heard within the right ear, which leads the mind towards stillness.
  • Verse 34: Explains that by focusing on this inner sound, the practitioner becomes detached from external distractions.
  • Verse 35: The practice of Nāda Yoga leads to a state where external sounds are no longer perceived, bringing the mind to a state of deep concentration.
  • Verse 36: Highlights that through continuous practice, the mind gets absorbed in the sound, leading to an experience of the divine.

Verses 37-41: Progression and Benefits

  • Verse 37: As the practitioner continues, subtler and subtler sounds are heard, progressing from coarse to finer levels of sound.
  • Verse 38: The sound vibrations are described as initially resembling the sounds of oceans, drums, or thunder, gradually becoming subtler.
  • Verse 39: The ultimate goal is to hear the most subtle sound, which leads to the highest state of meditation.
  • Verse 40: Through this practice, the practitioner's mind becomes completely absorbed in the sound, leading to a state of bliss and unity with the divine.
  • Verse 41: The culmination of Nada. is the realization of the self and the experience of supreme bliss.

Verses 42-46: Realization and Unity

  • Verse 42: Emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication in the practice to achieve the desired results.
  • Verse 43: Describes how the experience of the inner sound brings about a sense of detachment from the material world.
  • Verse 44: The practitioner attains a state of unity with the cosmic sound, experiencing the presence of the divine in every aspect of existence.
  • Verse 45: The ultimate realization is the understanding that the practitioner and the sound are not separate; they are one and the same.
  • Verse 46: Concludes with the affirmation that through the practice of Nāda Yoga, the practitioner attains liberation and eternal bliss.

  • Verse 32: The importance of controlling the mind and senses to progress in meditation is emphasized.
  • Verse 33: It describes how a practitioner should focus on the sound (Nāda) heard within the right ear, which leads the mind towards stillness.
  • Verse 34: Explains that by focusing on this inner sound, the practitioner becomes detached from external distractions.
  • Verse 35: The practice of Nāda Yoga leads to a state where external sounds are no longer perceived, bringing the mind to a state of deep concentration.
  • Verse 36: Highlights that through continuous practice, the mind gets absorbed in the sound, leading to an experience of the divine.
  • Verse 37: As the practitioner continues, subtler and subtler sounds are heard, progressing from coarse to finer levels of sound.
  • Verse 38: The sound vibrations are described as initially resembling the sounds of oceans, drums, or thunder, gradually becoming subtler.
  • Verse 39: The ultimate goal is to hear the most subtle sound, which leads to the highest state of meditation.
  • Verse 40: Through this practice, the practitioner’s mind becomes completely absorbed in the sound, leading to a state of bliss and unity with the divine.
  • Verse 41: The culmination of Nada. is the realization of the self and the experience of supreme bliss.
  • Verse 42: Emphasizes the importance of perseverance and dedication in the practice to achieve the desired results.
  • Verse 43: Describes how the experience of the inner sound brings about a sense of detachment from the material world.
  • Verse 44: The practitioner attains a state of unity with the cosmic sound, experiencing the presence of the divine in every aspect of existence.
  • Verse 45: The ultimate realization is the understanding that the practitioner and the sound are not separate; they are one and the same.
  • Verse 46: Concludes with the affirmation that through the practice of Nāda Yoga, the practitioner attains liberation and eternal bliss.

Key Topics

By following these teachings from the Bhagavata Purana, practitioners of Nada can embark on a transformative journey towards inner peace and spiritual enlightenment.

The Nada or Nada Yoga workshop is designed for advanced practitioners who are committed to deepening their spiritual practice. By integrating sound meditation, Pranayama, and visualization, participants will embark on a transformative journey that purifies the mind, harmonizes the body, and connects with the divine. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to explore the depths of Nada and attain a higher state of consciousness.

Join us in this profound exploration of sound and experience the transformative power of Nada.

Meditation in Bhagwatpuran

Comprehensive Meaning and Summary of the Verses

The practitioner should sit in a comfortable, steady posture with an erect body. Placing their hands on their lap, they should fix their gaze on the tip of their nose. This helps in calming the mind and preparing it for deeper practices.

The practitioner should purify the path of Prana (life force) through the practices of inhalation (Puraka), retention (Kumbhaka), and exhalation (Rechaka). By gradually mastering these techniques, one can gain control over the senses.

One should produce the sound of Omkara (Om) in the heart, resembling the continuous sound of a bell or the hum of a bee. The Prana should then be directed into this sound, and the practitioner should merge their awareness with it.

Practicing the union of Prana with the sound of Om ten times, three times a day, the practitioner can achieve control over Prana within a month.

Visualize the heart lotus (Hrit-Pundarika) within, facing downwards with its stalk upwards. Meditate on it as an upward-facing, eight-petaled lotus with its central core (Karnikam).

Place the sun, moon, and fire one after another in the central core of the lotus. Meditate on the form of the divine within the fire, which is the auspicious object of meditation.

Visualize the divine form as calm, serene, with a beautiful face, four long and graceful arms, a lovely neck, well-shaped cheeks, and a pure smile.

See the divine wearing shark-shaped earrings, adorned in golden garments, dark as a cloud, and bearing the mark of Srivatsa on the chest.

The divine form is decorated with a conch, discus, mace, lotus, and a garland of forest flowers. Their feet are adorned with anklets, and they shine with the brilliance of the Kaustubha gem.

Adorned with a radiant crown, bracelets, waistbands, and armlets, the divine form is beautiful in every aspect, heart-captivating, and with a face full of grace and compassion.

Meditate on this delicate and beautiful form, focusing the mind on each part. Withdrawing the senses from their objects using the mind, and with the intellect as the charioteer, direct the mind towards the divine in all respects.

Draw the all-pervading mind and concentrate it in one place. Do not let other thoughts arise; contemplate the smiling face of the divine.

After stabilizing the mind, focus it on the sky or the void. Then, relinquish even this focus, and do not think of anything.

Thus, the practitioner with a concentrated mind perceives the divine Self within. They see the Self as the all-pervading light, the light within the light, the essence of everything.

Through such intense meditation, the yogi’s mind quickly attains Nirvana, freeing itself from the illusions of material possessions, knowledge, and actions.

Summary

In the path of advanced yoga practice, meditation is essential for attaining spiritual liberation. The practitioner begins by sitting in a comfortable posture and calming the mind through Pranayama (breath control). By purifying the pathways of Prana, focusing on the sound of Om, and visualizing the divine form within the heart lotus, they withdraw the senses from external distractions. This deep concentration leads to the realization of the Self as the all-pervading light. By consistently practicing these techniques, the yogi transcends material illusions and attains Nirvana, the state of ultimate freedom and union with the divine.

Dates: 14th to 19th April 2025
Place: Kaivalyadhama, Lonavala
Medium of Instruction: English

TimeTopic
6:30 am to 07:30 amAsanas
10:00 am to 12:00 pmSession 1
3.00 pm to 6.00 pmSession 2
6:30pm to 7:00 pmHavan

Workshop Facilitator

Dr. Santosh Pandey
Consultant Naturopath in Kaivalyadhama Health Care Center, Lecturer in Kaivalyadhama College. Senior Yoga and Naturopathy Physician

Dr. Santosh Pandey is a distinguished expert in Naturopathy, Yoga Therapy, and Acupressure & Acupuncture, with over 24 years of experience. He holds a B.N.Y.S., Master Diploma in Yoga Therapy, MBA in Hospital Administration, and is a Reiki Grand Master Level 12 and Advanced Pranic Healer. He has received the President’s National Award and a Gold Medal in Yoga and Naturopathy (2005). Dr. Pandey’s expertise spans Yoga Therapy, Naturopathy, Wellness & Spa Treatments, and both Basic & Advanced Acupressure Healing. He has held roles in administration, research, consultation, and development across various institutes and participated in numerous conferences. With a focus on Basic Medical Sciences, Yoga Philosophy, and Chakra Meditation-practiced for 35 years and taught for 20-Dr. Pandey is a prominent figure in wellness and alternative medicine, blending traditional and modern techniques to promote holistic health.

Registration

Regarding Registration and Booking –
Once the booking is done, please share the booking reference code at
onsiteworkshops@kdham.com to confirm your participation in the workshop.

Note: The fresh dates will be announced soon.

Please visit the link here for Room Details

(The complete package pricing for the workshop along with accommodation is as given under “Workshop fees including accommodation and meals”)

Workshop fees including
accommodation and meals

Registration till 22nd March 2025

  • Single Standard room with common bath: Rs. 22000
  • Single Standard room with attached bath: Rs. 27000
  • Single Deluxe Room without AC: Rs. 35000
  • Single Deluxe Room with AC: Rs. 38000
  • Single Anand Room with AC: Rs. 50500
  • Single Keshav Kutir with AC: Rs. 40000

Late Registration 23rd March 2025, onwards

  • Single Standard room with common bath: Rs. 24000
  • Single Standard room with attached bath: Rs. 29000
  • Single Deluxe Room without AC: Rs. 37000
  • Single Deluxe Room with AC: Rs. 40000
  • Single Anand Room with AC: Rs. 52500
  • Single Keshav Kutir with AC: Rs. 42000

Please Note:

  • On registering to the workshop, you will be redirected to payment page for partial advance for the Workshop.
  • On confirmation of payment your seat to the workshop will be reserved.

Query for this workshop?

 Please email us – onsiteworkshops@kdham.com

Cancellation and Refund Policy

Accommodation and meals

If you find it necessary to cancel your reservation, here’s what you can expect:

  • Cancellations made more than 1 month prior to your arrival date are eligible for a full refund, excluding any applicable transaction fees.
  • Cancellations made before 7 days of the scheduled arrival date will qualify for a 75% refund of the total amount paid.
  • Cancellations made within 7 days of the scheduled arrival date, no refund will be provided.

To initiate your cancellation, please send an email to booking@kdham.com. Kindly be informed that we do not accept cancellation requests over the phone.

Your feedback is important to us, so before you continue, let us know