Curriculum
Deepen your spiritual practice and align with the cosmic rhythms
Dive deep into the ancient Indian practice that intertwines the celestial with the sonic—exploring the intricate relationship between sound vibration and the cosmos. This course unpacks the fundamentals of Nāda Nakșatra Upasana, meditation on sound.
You'll learn the theoretical aspects and get hands-on with practical techniques rooted in Vedic traditions, enabling you to harmonize your personal energy with the universe through specific sounds called śrutis, the microtones or notes in between notes.
By regularly engaging with the practices, you can expect enhanced mental clarity and a deeper sense of wellbeing. The practices are designed to be seamlessly integrated into modern lifestyles, offering a unique toolset for stress management and personal development.
What you will learn
Part 1: The Intersection of Śruti Based Rāga Music and Vedic Astrology
- January 12 - February 16: Sundays, 9:30-11:30am ET - no class Feb 2
- 5 Practice Classes: Sundays, 9:30-10:15am ET
- 5 Lecture Classes: Sundays, 10:15-11:15am ET
- 5 Q&A Classes: Sundays, 11:15-11:30 stick around after class and ask your questions
Part 1 teaches the listening practices and introduces the history, theory, and method of nāda nakșatra upāsana.
Part 1 is focused on listening, resonating, and recognizing different emotions that get lifted up by different rāgas. The emphasis is on building a capacity to speak to what you are feeling after listening to different rāgas. Listening from specific parts of the subtle body and learning to somatically feel and express your emotions instead of thinking about your emotions with the rational mind.
Part 2: The Subtle Body & Sound - Learn your Rāga as a Mantra
- 2 one hour private sessions in February: Scheduled individually
- Access to Allison through WhatsApp as you memorize your scale and send in your weekly homework due each Wednesday
If you sign up for the whole program, Parts 2 & 3 will teach you your rāga based on the position of the moon at birth. Parts 2 and 3 are focused on sound and breath practices utilizing your rāga. Memorizing your scale is necessary for Parts 2 & 3. For some people, memorizing your scale will feel simple, for others, it will take more effort.
Part 3: a Series of Breath and Sound Practices Using Attendees Rāgas
1 private session in March
3 classes in March: Live on Zoom Sundays 9-10am ET
Your instructor
Allison Dennis brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the exploration and teaching of Nāda Nakșatra Upāsana. With a background steeped in both traditional teachings and contemporary practices, Allison has dedicated a significant portion of her career to studying the intricate layers of sound meditation and intentional listening practices. Her academic credentials are complemented by years of hands-on experience, which have allowed her to gain profound insights into the transformative power of Nāda Yoga.
As a devoted practitioner and teacher, Allison's enthusiasm for Nāda Nakșatra Upāsana is rooted in her own journey of personal growth and self-discovery. She approaches teaching with a nurturing and inclusive ethos, aiming to inspire her students to forge their own connections and vocalize their experience in a safe environment. Her courses are crafted to not only impart knowledge but to also foster a supportive community where students can explore the subtleties of sound and its relationship with the nakshatras. Allison's passionate involvement enables her to guide students through a rich and expansive experience that extends well beyond the classroom.