Jai Uttal is a pioneer in the world music community. He inspires minds and hearts to awaken through devotional song and chanting, also known as kirtan. I discovered Jai and kirtan over 13 years ago. I have sang and danced with Jai near and far. In addition to meditation and yoga, kirtan has been a huge part of my spiritual practice. It is a way I stay connected to my heart and courage amidst the challenges in our world.
In the interview, Jai speaks about how he stays inspired, uplifted, resilient and his thoughts on how we can awaken humanity through singing, generosity, and being in conscious community.
I invite you to try kirtan as part of your new conscious routine.
Key Takeaways:
[:01] Carley Hauck introduces herself as the founder of Living Well Awake, the new Shine podcast, and her upcoming new book — Shine- Ignite your inner game to lead consciously at work and in the world, available March 2020.
[1:40] Carley introduces Jai Uttal, a pioneer in the world music community whose music connects the mind, heart, body and soul, and she shares one of her favorite mantras.
[7:18] Jai reflects on his first musical memories and the inception of his spiritual journey.
[15:02] The components of kirtan include notes, which are a doorway into the divine; mantra, a language of prayer with transformational powers; and repetition.
[19:05] Jai shares the spectrum of emotions, including all levels of both light and darkness, that allow him to foster spiritual connections with other people and result in a greater joy.
[24:06] How does kirtan aid with the healing and transformation that is so desperately needed in our world today?
[32:10] Jai’s tips for starting a personal practice of kirtan include making a simple commitment to yourself that you can easily uphold, worth with the voice and body that you have, and select mantras that you like best.
[38:42] I invite you to join me and Jai as we share one of the simplest and most loved mantras.
[45:08] The simple ways that I bring kirtan into my life, and my favorite mantras.
[47:33] Jai shares his personal practices, the mantras that he repeats before he gets out of bed in the morning, and his recommendation for the ideal length of a meditation practice.
[53:22] Reflections on the ways that we can truly serve and support others and lead both in our personal and professional life.
[56:26] The intense spiritual connection that is alive and bright in the world today is the basis of Jai’s greatest source of hope.
[59:33] A showcase of organizations and individuals that are doing good in the world, including One Tree Planted and Salesforce.
[1:07:38] Carley offers the Living Well Awake 30 Days of Mindful Living program, available to you to practice at your own pace and throughout the years to come.
[1:10:37] We close with a guided one minute gratitude practice and the gift of one of my favorite mantras.
Resources:
Living Well Awake 30 Days of Mindful Living