Morning Rounds: Opening Up the World of Bhakti Through Japa Meditation

Hari Prasada Das (Upbuild)
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Spirituality

In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice. Like a doctor making rounds to support healing, Morning Rounds is about tending to the soul. Through the chanting of the Holy Names, we gradually quiet the mind, soften the pull of the ego, and reconnect with our deeper spiritual nature. Drawn from our weekly japa meditation gatherings at Upbuild, these reflections offer a few minutes of inspiration to support your meditation and begin your day with greater clarity, humility, and joy.In the Bhagavad-Gita, Krishna describes japa, the chanting of the Holy Names, as the highest form of sacrifice. This timeless practice has the power to transform our consciousness through the simple act of returning, again and again, to the sound of the Holy Names.Whether you are new to chanting or have an established practice, these reflections are an invitation to deepen your relationship with the maha-mantra:Hare Krishna Hare KrishnaKrishna Krishna Hare HareHare Rama Hare RamaRama Rama Hare HareThrough consistent practice and the support of community, we begin to experience a deepening sense of joy and connection that arises simply from hearing and chanting these sacred names.

Episodes

  1. 11h ago

    9 - Breath: The Role of Respiration in Chanting

    Breathing plays a crucial role in both physical functioning and mental clarity, which impacts how we engage in Krishna Consciousness. Hari reflects on the relationship between breath and posture, emphasizing the importance of presence. Although there are no strict rules about breathing during chanting, incorporating pranayama practices prior to japa can create a sacred space that aids in connecting with Krishna. He explores practical tips, including the significance of taking deep breaths and pacing oneself. Quotes   "The breath is very important because it controls the different functions of the body; it also has a huge impact on the mind."  "The point is to connect with Krishna. Whatever will aid you in doing that is welcome."  "Breathing beforehand is wonderful; it can help you create a more sacred space."   Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  2. 3d ago

    8 - Posture: The Alignment of Our Body During Chanting

    Chanting the Holy Names involves our physical presence. In this episode, Hari examines the principle of alignment, emphasizing the importance of proper posture. He reflects on how our body affects not only our mind and heart but also our ability to connect with Krishna. Drawing on insights from the teachings of Sacinandana Swami, he shares how aligning our body in the Mode of Goodness allows us to chant with greater absorption and devotion. Quotes "The mind is affected by the body, and the heart is also affected by the body." "When you are preparing to meditate, you want to sit straight."    "Chanting in the Mode of Goodness is sitting straight, aligned, and really being ready." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  3. Jul 16

    7 - Volume: How Loudly Should You Chant?

    Volume plays a critical role in our japa practice. Hari explores three distinct volumes of chanting: manasika (mental), upamsu (soft), and vacika (loud), emphasizing how each can be suitable depending on circumstances and individual experience. He highlights the potential benefits of loud chanting for beginners and those experiencing emotional stress, suggesting that it helps capture one's mind and establish a connection with Krishna. Hari also reflects on the teachings of Sanatana Goswami, who offered guidance on japa, linking the choice of volume to our level of focus and absorption. But at the end of the day, upamsu is the most universal standard for chanting japa, as recommended by the acharyas. Quotes "Manasika is actually the best of the best because it requires the most absorption.""For beginners, the louder we chant, the more likely we can grab the mind.""When you're frustrated, chant loudly to get it out of your system.""Finding what is comfortable for you and experimenting with that volume is key to effective chanting." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  4. Jul 13

    6 - Duration: How Long Should a Round of Chanting Take?

    Hari focuses on the relationship between speed and time when chanting japa. He shares practical benchmarks for beginners and the potential pitfalls of rushing. Ultimately, what’s most important is that we see chanting as a dynamic practice that can evolve over time, but one that is guided by the intent to honor the sacredness of the mantra. Quotes "The priority is the pronunciation.""...108 mantras for most people at the beginning...can take up to 15 minutes.""We want to lovingly pronounce Krishna's names; they are so dear, so sacred, so beautiful.""If we're taking more than 10 minutes and we're used to chanting, there's a good possibility that we're daydreaming." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  5. Jul 9

    5 - Speed: How Quickly Should We Chant the Mantra?

    The discussion focuses on finding the right speed for chanting the mantra, highlighting the balance between pace and pronunciation. Hari explores how some individuals naturally chant at a faster pace, while others naturally go at a slower, more deliberate pace. He emphasizes that adjusting pace should never come at the cost of slurring or losing meaning. Quotes "When we love somebody…we want to get their name right.""Chant as quickly as you can while preserving the pronunciation of the Hare Krishna mantra.""Chant with care and then gradually pick up the pace.""There has to be an energy to it, and it has to keep pace with the mind." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  6. Jul 6

    4 - Pronunciation: The Strength of Uttering the Sound Properly

    This episode centers on the importance of pronunciation in chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, emphasizing that while perfect pronunciation isn't essential, a sincere desire to connect with Krishna is. The discussion explores how Western influences can impact the enunciation of Sanskrit words, and what it means to truly have attentiveness to the syllables. Quotes "The most essential [thing] is devotion… to actually feel, 'I want you, Krishna. I want to be with you.'""Sanskrit is actually a divine language… it means the language of God.""If you don't get the 'R' roll perfectly, no problem. Just try your best." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  7. Jul 2

    3 - Sanga 2: The Effect of Devotees on Our Personal Practice

    Hari explores the significance of chanting in the company of devotees, emphasizing how this practice can uplift one’s spiritual connection. Referencing teachings from Ramanujacharya and insights from Sacinandana Swami, the conversation highlights that the assembly of devotees creates a strong gravitational pull toward Krishna. The discussion culminates in a recognition of the profound impacts of sharing space and intention with others during one’s personal sadhana. Quotes "If you want inspiration, then go into the assembly of devotees." (paraphrasing of Ramanujacarya)"In the assembly of devotees, everyone is focused on Krishna.""That's where the strongest gravitational pull for God is when devotees come together to chant the Holy Names.""It's hard for Krishna to ignore the affection with which we call His name." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  8. Jun 29

    2 - Sanga 1: The Need for Collective Practice

    In this episode, Hari emphasizes the significance of chanting together in a supportive environment and the unique benefits of collective spiritual practice. He explores the balance between individual focus in chanting and the uplifting influence of being in a group. Quotes "The more sincere the person is, the more we can feel that they’re really trying to give themselves to Krishna.""Chanting in sanga is to uplift us by our collective intention, our collective energy, our spirit, our sincerity.""In the brahmacari ashram, the sound vibration of others chanting created this din that was so beautiful." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  9. Jun 27

    1 - The Meaning of the Hare Krishna Mantra and the Importance of Japa

    The discussion focuses on the transformative practice of japa, which is a way to invite Krishna into our daily lives. Hari explores the significance of chanting the Hare Krishna mantra, emphasizing its role as the prescribed duty for this age and its ability to cultivate a deeper relationship with the Divine. Hari also highlights the meanings behind the names Krishna, Rama, and Hare, noting their importance in connecting with compassion and pleasure. He describes japa as a powerful tool to deliver the mind and awaken one's spiritual consciousness. Quotes "The purpose of our japa is to call Krishna into our lives… it's considered the Yuga Dharma to chant the names of God.""Krishna is very sweet; it means the all-attractive.""The maha-mantra is our best friend; it's the way to most greatly deliver the mind.""We want Krishna, we want to be ourselves, we want Bhakti, devotion." Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  10. Jun 27

    Introducing Morning Rounds

    Welcome to Morning Rounds, a podcast to accompany and deepen your japa meditation practice. In this introductory episode, Hari Prasada shares the heart behind Morning Rounds and the purpose of these daily reflections. Together, we’ll explore how chanting the Holy Names can quiet the mind, uproot the ego, and awaken our relationship with Krishna. Throughout this podcast, we’ll draw from the Bhagavad-Gita and other sacred texts of the Bhakti tradition while also offering practical guidance on cultivating a meaningful and transformative japa practice. Whether you are just beginning your journey or have been chanting for many years, our hope is that these reflections inspire you to approach each round with greater intention, humility, and love. Join the live version of this program Tuesday mornings: https://www.upbuild.com/morning-rounds Learn the skills necessary to support others in becoming their best self in our six-month coaching training: https://www.upbuild.com/coaching-training/ Upbuild's other podcasts:  Upbuilding the Self: https://www.upbuild.com/podcast Upbuild Enneagram Library: https://www.upbuild.com/enneagram-podcastSubscribe to the Upbuild newsletter at the bottom of our https://www.upbuild.com/ _____ Our heartfelt thanks to Jahnavi Harrison for graciously allowing us to feature her recording, "Divine Maha Mantra," in our intro and outro. Learn more about her divine music: https://www.jahnavimusic.com/.  ______ In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice.

  • 10 Episodes

About

In short, Morning Rounds is: How to make the most of our most important practice. Like a doctor making rounds to support healing, Morning Rounds is about tending to the soul. Through the chanting of the Holy Names, we gradually quiet the mind, soften the pull of the ego, and reconnect with our deeper spiritual nature. Drawn from our weekly japa meditation gatherings at Upbuild, these reflections offer a few minutes of inspiration to support your meditation and begin your day with greater clarity, humility, and joy.In the Bhagavad-Gita, Krishna describes japa, the chanting of the Holy Names, as the highest form of sacrifice. This timeless practice has the power to transform our consciousness through the simple act of returning, again and again, to the sound of the Holy Names.Whether you are new to chanting or have an established practice, these reflections are an invitation to deepen your relationship with the maha-mantra:Hare Krishna Hare KrishnaKrishna Krishna Hare HareHare Rama Hare RamaRama Rama Hare HareThrough consistent practice and the support of community, we begin to experience a deepening sense of joy and connection that arises simply from hearing and chanting these sacred names.

Information