Set the Hot Stone Down!

On Letting Go and Beginning Again

Dear Sanga,

As we arrive at this new moon—a time traditionally associated with renewal and quiet beginnings—I invite you to pause and reflect on the theme of forgiveness.

Holding on to resentment can feel justified, even necessary at times. Yet, in truth, it is like carrying a hot stone with the intention of throwing it at someone, but never quite doing so. The longer we hold it, the more it burns us. Its weight drains our energy, distracts our focus, and keeps us tethered to moments that no longer serve us.

Forgiveness, then, is not an act of weakness—it is an act of release. It is a conscious choice to set the stone down. In doing so, we unburden ourselves. We become lighter, clearer, and more aligned with what truly matters—our primary dharma, our deeper purpose in life. We realise that we are not our hurt. We are much more valuable. 

No amount of anger or rage can resolve what has already passed. These emotions, while human and understandable, often prolong suffering rather than alleviate it. There is a quiet strength in choosing peace. To let go of hurt, not because it was acceptable, but because you choose not to let it define your present—that is wisdom.

It is important to forgive the person, but not to forget the lesson. Forgiveness does not mean erasing boundaries or dismissing what happened. It means learning, growing, and moving forward with greater awareness.

I want to acknowledge that this path is not easy. I understand this not just in theory, but through my own experience. There have been times when I held on tightly to resentment, believing it gave me a sense of control or justice. But in reality, it only held me back. It was only when I made peace within myself—when I offered forgiveness not only to others, but also to myself for carrying that burden—that something shifted. My life felt lighter, clearer, and renewed in a deeply positive way.

This new moon offers us a gentle invitation: to release, to reset, and to begin again. You do not have to carry what is burning you.

Namaste!

18 Mar 2026 (New Moon)

Navagraha-s are the nine heavenly bodies and deities that influence human life on Earth and are greatly relevant in Vedic tradition, especially Vedic Astrology. The term is derived from nava, meaning nine, and graha, meaning house, planet, seizing, laying hold of, holding. The seven days of the week in the Vedic calendar is also based on the Navagraha. The position of each of these houses in our astrological chart, which is calculated based on the time and place of our birth, influences our dharma (purpose) and karma (destiny).

Śrī Budha (Mercury)

There are very special Gāyatrī mantras to honour each of these Navagraha-s. This chant, titled Śrī Navagraha-budha-gāyatrī-mantra, honours Mercury, the fourth house of the Navagraha-s. Śrī Budha (Mercury) is the prince in astrology. He represents speech, intelligence, maternal uncles, short journeys, the medical profession, trade, analysis, astrology, and knowledge of the Śāstra-s, accounts, mathematics, journalism, printing and publishing. He is usually depicted with four hands, riding upon a chariot or a lion. Three of his hands hold a sword, a shield, and a mace, respectively. The fourth one is held in the usual Varada-mudrä.

Listen to this chant six times, once in the morning and once in the afternoon and benefit from the power of Mercury. You can listen to the chant twelve times, twice a day on Wednesdays.

Viniyoga Therapy Training: A Global path of healing and learning

Viniyoga Therapy is a personalised and holistic approach to yoga that adapts practices to the unique needs of each individual. Rooted in the teachings of T. Krishnamacharya, it integrates breath, movement, and mindful awareness to support physical, mental, and emotional well-being. This therapeutic approach is widely recognised for its effectiveness in addressing a range of health conditions while respecting each person’s capabilities and life context.

The Viniyoga Therapy Training offers an in-depth journey for those who wish to deepen their understanding and become skilled in applying yoga as a therapeutic tool. It is more than a course; it is a commitment. To learning how to support others with care and compassion.

The recently concluded Module 02 of the Viniyoga Therapy Training in Hungary!

What makes this training especially inspiring is its truly global presence. Around the world, dedicated students are stepping forward to take part in this transformative experience. Trainings are currently happening—or have recently taken place—in places such as Hungary, Brussels, Italy, and England, with new programs opening regularly. Beyond Europe, the reach extends to South Korea, Japan, and New Zealand, reflecting a growing international community united by a shared intention to heal and serve.

Each training brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, all committed to exploring the depth of Viniyoga Therapy and its applications. This worldwide movement highlights the relevance and accessibility of the practice across cultures and continents.

So many have already chosen to embark on this path: learning, growing, and contributing to the well-being of others.

Why not you?

Our Vedic Chant Teacher Training program, guided by Śrī Menaka Desikachar, has gained recognition worldwide, offering students a rare opportunity to learn, deepen, and eventually teach the sacred art of Vedic chanting. As one of the few organisations providing this certification, the program has already been conducted across many countries, bringing together a growing international community of dedicated practitioners.

Rooted in the holistic teachings of T. Krishnamacharya, this training presents the ancient Viniyoga tradition in a clear and well-structured course of study. The teaching method remains true to tradition, with chants transmitted orally from teacher to student—preserving the authenticity, precision, and depth of this lineage.

Mrs. Menaka Desikachar teaching Chanting

The program is led by Mrs. Menaka Desikachar, whose experience and presence offer a unique and inspiring learning environment, supported by her long-term students who assist throughout the journey.

A new batch will begin in April 2026, continuing this living tradition and welcoming new students into the practice.

And beyond the training itself, the community continues to grow and come together in meaningful ways. If you feel inspired to celebrate her remarkable journey, a very special gathering will take place in Chiang Mai, Thailand, next January in honor of her 80th birthday. It promises to be a heartfelt and vibrant event, bringing together the global Viniyoga community to reconnect, celebrate this extraordinary tradition, and honor Madam Menaka Desikachar.

An occasion not to be missed and perhaps, the perfect moment to step into this path yourself.

In January 2027, we invite you to step into the bi-annual International Viniyoga Conference, Pilgrimage of Sound—a gathering of practice, presence, and living tradition.

Rooted in lineage, carried through sound, and shared in community.

Held at a time when seasons turn differently across the world, this gathering offers a meaningful opportunity to come together in shared practice. For those in the northern hemisphere, it is a chance to step away from the depths of winter into a space of warmth, reflection, and renewal. For those in the southern hemisphere, it offers a way to anchor the openness of the summer season in dedicated practice—an auspicious use of time for rest, study, and inner exploration.

This special conference coincides with the 80th birthday of Mrs. Menaka Desikachar, the seniormost Viniyoga teacher today. A direct student of Yogācārya T. Krishnamacharya and a long-term student of her husband, T.K.V. Desikachar, she embodies a lineage transmitted through sound, relationship, and lived experience. This gathering is offered in honour of her life’s work and unwavering dedication to Viniyoga.

Souvenir from the previous Viniyoga International Confernce in 2025

Pilgrimage of Sound explores chanting and mantra as sacred pathways of transformation. Through vibration, rhythm, and attentive listening, participants are invited to experience sound as a bridge between body, breath, mind, and heart. The conference highlights the application of chanting and mantra within Yoga, Yoga Therapy, and spiritual inquiry, offering a deeply experiential journey.

Pre-Conference Immersion

18–20 January 2027

A three-day pre-conference immersion, led by Mrs. Menaka Desikachar and Dr. Kausthub Desikachar, is designed for advanced and long-term practitioners. This specialised programme offers an intimate exploration of the conference theme. Participation in the pre-conference requires registration for the main conference.

Main Conference

21–24 January 2027

The main conference will be guided by Mrs. Menaka Desikachar and Dr. Kausthub Desikachar, together with senior teachers of the Viniyoga tradition. Faculty from nine countries have confirmed their participation, bringing a rich diversity of experience and perspective rooted in a shared lineage. Early-morning practice sessions in smaller groups will focus on refined applications of mantra and chanting across yogic tools. Plenary sessions bring all participants together for lectures, chanting classes, and meditative practices that integrate understanding and experience.

Beyond the deep learning experience, other advantages of participating in this special event include connecting with a wider global sangha and making new connections, as well as retreating into a sanctuary of peace at this beautiful venue, which will facilitate inner healing and relaxation.