Honoring Shiva: Yogic Rituals for Maha Shivaratri
Every year, as dictated by the Hindu lunar calendar, a global community celebrates the auspicious holiday of Maha Shivaratri. Maha Shivaratri, also known as Shivaratri or Mahashivratri, is celebrated annually in February or March, marking a time of profound reverence for Shiva, the great lord of yoga.
In the rich tapestry of yogic mythology, Shiva, often revered as "The Great Destroyer," symbolizes the embodiment of divine masculine energy and the principles of creation, stillness, and pure awareness.
Shiva's presence in yoga practice is profound and multifaceted, interwoven into various aspects of both the physical and spiritual dimensions. For instance, in the graceful posture of Natarajasana, known as "King Dancer's Pose," practitioners emulate the celestial dance of Shiva Nataraja, the cosmic dancer.
Shiva’s presence extends beyond merely the symbolic through mudras, meditations and mantras, that serve as a guiding force to inspire practitioners to delve deeper into their practice, cultivate inner transformation, and realize their true potential as embodiments of divine consciousness.
On these darkest nights of the month leading up to a full moon, it is suggested to practice introspectively in order to connect with the profound energy of Shiva within. Here are several transformative practices to explore, preparing you for a great awakening from the slumber of the "night".
Awaken your creative energy with shiva linga mudra. In this short tutorial, you’ll learn the significance of this mudra and how to apply its benefits to any area of your life that needs healing.
Feel into your capacity to lead with a brave, open heart. Hear how the great god and goddess of yoga, Shiva and Durga, relate to these heart openers to become soft in heart, sharp in mind, and vibrant in bodies and beings.
In this short session, which is part mythic storytelling and part mantra practice, learn how embracing all aspects of ourselves (even the parts of ourselves that we'd rather hide) can lead to our greatest transformation and growth. You'll hear how Lord Shiva turned poison into nectar and practice the mantra "Om Namah Shivaya," which is dedicated to Lord Shiva.
Join Sianna Sherman and Masood Ali Khan for this chanting practice of om namah shivaya. This mantra is a salutation to the auspicious inner essence of our being, to the pure awareness that flows through all.
Shiva has many names including, Mrityunjaya, the Death Conqueror. The Maha Mrityunjaya mantra is one of yoga’s most important mantras. It restores health and happiness and brings calmness in the face of death.
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