An Introduction To Vedic Chanting with Helen Macpherson – Oct 2025

Vedic chanting is often considered to be the oldest continually practised oral tradition, dating back to the Vedic era in India, which is thought to have begun around 1500BC.

It has been passed on faithfully for thousands of years due to its emphasis on precise pronunciation, rhythm and tonality of the ancient Sanskrit language. The tradition of Vedic chanting has been recognized by UNESCO as a Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.

The Vedic mantra-s include profound spiritual teachings and invocations for health, harmony and well-being. Their power is said to reside in the sounds and vibrations of the words themselves, which resonate in the human system. The practice of Vedic chanting has many potential benefits for concentration, memory, health and well-being, and is considered a meditative part of yoga, which can be practised by anyone, even if they are not religious or singers, as there are only three notes. (These mantra-s are considered sacred to Hindus, though they pre-date modern Hinduism.)

About the Course Leader:

Helen Macpherson is a yoga teacher and trainer in the tradition of TKV Desikachar and Sri T Krishnamacharya, with a special interest in the use of sound and mantra.

She has practised Vedic chanting for over twenty five years, and continues to study with her Indian teacher, Shobana Srinivasan. To support her study and teaching she gained a GCSE in Sanskrit.

Helen has observed and experienced the powerful support which can be given by this practice. She teaches chanting 1:1 and in groups and has run training courses enabling others to pass on this rich heritage.

She invites you to come and try some simple vedic chanting for yourself- no previous experience necessary.

If you have any questions, please get in touch.

Join us for lunch (£15.00 pre-ordered and any dietary requirements / allergies in advance please ) allowing Claridge House to support and nurture you with our nourishing food and warm hospitality or bring your own (please be mindful we are a vegetarian house for over 70 years)

Day Outline

10am-5pm

09:30  Registration

11:15  break

13:00 Lunch (bring your own or pre-book with your registration)

16:00 Tea and Cake (included)

17:00 Ends