Re-apply the Basics

In the Japa Room this week we were talking about re-applying the basic guidelines as outlined by Srila Prabhupada...Srila Prabhupada mentions some useful tips here:

"One should note in this connection that chanting involves the activities of the upper and lower lips as well as the tongue.  All three must be engaged in chanting the Hare Krishna maha-mantra. The words Hare Krishna should be very distinctly pronounced and heard. Sometimes one mechanically produces a hissing sound instead of chanting...with the proper pronunciation with the help of the lips and tongue. Chanting is very simple, but one must practice it seriously."
Chaitanya Charitamrta - Adi 17.32 purport

"Chanting japa should be done early in the morning with full concentration preferably during the Brahma Muhurta time. Concentrate fully on the sound vibration of the mantra, pronouncing each name distinctly and gradually your speed in chanting will increase naturally. Do not worry so much about chanting fast, most important is the hearing."
Letter from Srila Prabhupada 6/1/72

Devotee: "Srila Prabhup��da, it's very difficult to control my mind when I chant. It wanders."
Srila Prabhupada: "So what is the controlling of mind? You have to chant and hear. That is all. You have to chant with your tongue, and the sound you hear. What is the question of mind?"

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