What can ‘japa’ teach us?

February’s class theme is japa — a beautiful Sanskrit word that means ‘repetition’.

Traditionally, japa refers to the meditative repetition of a mantra. In texts like the Yoga Sutras, mantra japa is described as a pathway to steadiness of the mind.

Traditional mala beads consist of 108 beads, one for each repetition of a mantra

We are, of course, familiar with the mantra Om, which we chant at the beginning and end of our classes. According to the teachings of Patanjali, repeating any mantra with awareness can help dissolve obstacles and reconnect us to a deeper sense of self. Often mala beads (similar to rosary beads) are used. A string of mala beads has 108 beads, which represents 108 repetitions of the mantra. Physically handling the beads as we chant helps to bring our focus back to the mantra when our mind wanders.

Repetition of movement

However, this month we’re exploring japa in a slightly different, and more embodied, way.

Rather than introducing new postures each week, we have been practising the same sequence of asanas again and again.

At first, it might feel unusual. We live in a culture that celebrates novelty. New flows. New playlists. New challenges. Yet there is quiet power in repetition.

We invite subtle shifts to take place

When we repeat a familiar sequence, something subtle happens. The mind softens its need to anticipate. The body begins to remember. We notice the small shifts: how trikonasana  feels this week compared to last, where the breath catches, where space has opened. The repetition becomes a mirror.

This is physical japa.

Each time we step to the top of the mat and begin again, we are chanting with our bodies. Each Sun or Moon Salutation that we've been practising is a mantra in motion. The repetition isn’t about achieving a ‘perfect’ pose; it’s about refining our awareness. Sanding the edges. Listening more deeply.

We develop patience

Over time, repetition builds steadiness. It grounds us. It teaches patience. And perhaps most importantly, it reveals that transformation doesn’t always come from doing more, but from doing the same thing with greater presence.

That is the quiet magic of japa.