A mantra for liberation
May all beings, in the whole word, be happy and free
The Sanskrit mantra Lokāḥ Samastāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu translates to “may all beings, in the whole world, be happy.” Some translations include the word “free” so that it becomes “may all beings, in the whole world, be happy and free.”
To me, Lokāḥ Samastāḥ Sukhino Bhavantu is a call to action. It reminds us of our humanity, our agency, and our innate desire for freedom. It invites us to take a critical look at the world around us and to take action for the liberation of ourselves and each other. Our own liberation is dependent on the collective liberation of all.
This chant can be spoken or sung. Two of my favorite recordings of this mantra via Spotify are this one by Marti Nikko, DJ Drez, Sheela Bringi, and Brent Kuecker and this one by Kevin Paris.
I know many of us are horrified, stunned, and grief-stricken by the unfolding genocide in Gaza. I am heartbroken by the people, families, cultures, institutions, and communities that have been needlessly destroyed.
According to the US Campaign for Palestinian Rights, my home state of North Carolina has sent $91,775,098 to Israel for weapons, which could have funded 10,910 households with public housing for a year, 31,932 children with free or low-cost healthcare, or the elimination of student loan debt for 2,428 people. How much has your state or country sent?
If you’re looking for ways to take action, consider donating to organizations like Palestine Children’s Relief Fund or World Central Kitchen, contacting your representatives, and participating in a demonstration.
May all Palestinians be happy and free.
May all who are affected by genocides past and present be happy and free.
May all who are affected by systems of oppression be happy and free.
May you be happy and free.
Intuitive Yoga - Sunday, June 2nd
The next Intuitive Yoga session is Sunday, June 2nd at 10am Pacific/1pm Eastern on Zoom through Intuitive Way. This is a wonderful space to help you find ease through gentle movement and intuitive tools. All levels welcome. You can register here.
Upcoming classes will be on July 7th and August 4th.
