Heart-Opening Experiences: Kirtan and Healing Sound

Are you looking for experiences to open your heart, heal your body and feed your soul? The Unitarian Universalist Society: East (UUS:E) will host a series of kirtan and heart-opening sound experiences this fall.

"Music & Mantra: Kirtan with Charlie Braun" will be held on Friday, September 13, 2019, at 7:00 p.m. Joined by vocalist Brie Sullivan and a percussionist, Charlie's unique energy, leadership, and style is easy to follow and full of joy. It is a fusion of melodic folk-rock that wanders into reggae, blues, and other musical forays, but still stays true to the heart-opening power of Sanskrit mantras. Check out Charlie’s kirtan music at www.charliebraun.com. Sit, stand, sing, sway, dance, or simply close your eyes and be transported—just join us in the fun!

On Friday, October 11, 2019, at 7:00 p.m., come experience the healing power of sound with Ed Cleveland's “Gong Journeys: Into the Sacred Heart.” Using singing bowls and gongs, Ed creates sound waves that trigger the release of healthy neurochemicals and hormones—sounds that can ease pain, boost creativity, and promote a healthier, freer state of mind. Furthermore, Ed is a certified Reiki master and holographic sound master and teacher, offering a wide range of abilities to enrich your healing experience. Chair seating is provided, but if you choose to sit or lie (encouraged) on the floor for the hour, bring your own mat, blanket, pillows—whatever you need for your comfort.

The last event in the series is “Shakti’s Light Kirtan: A Musical Thanksgiving for All Life” on Friday, November 8, 2019 at 7 p.m. Singer-songwriters Vicky Hannon and Jenn Richard form Shakti's Light, performing mantras in a combination of original music and familiar tunes. The two have been singing and playing together in bhakti yoga settings since 2009, providing live music for various yoga classes and leading kirtan. Their style is an energizing acoustic guitar-based rock, with an emphasis on tapping into universal spirit. Vicky and Jenn believe that music makes the world better in a far-reaching way that anyone can experience, regardless of personal faith, or perceived vocal talent. Sing, sway, or close your eyes and simply drink in the kirtan experience.

Unitarian Universalist Society: East is located at 153 Vernon Street West, Manchester, CT. There is a suggested donation of $15. No one will be turned away. Chair seating is provided. Bring your own floor cushions if you want to sit on the floor in the front. Footwear optional. UUS:E is a scent-free space. For more information, visit www.uuse.org.

UUS:E is a welcoming, open-minded, spiritual community seeking truth and meaning in its many forms.