Obstacles and Overcoming Challenges in the Path of Learning Devotional Chanting

On the spiritual journey, regardless of the practice or method we choose to deepen our inner connection, it is inevitable that we face challenges or obstacles. These difficulties may lead us to question our journey or even consider giving up. However, it is important to remember that these “stones in the path” are not necessarily problems but fundamental parts of the process that help us grow and understand our choices and uncertainties.

In my journey through devotional chanting, I encountered various emotional issues and cognitive challenges that made me reflect. I decided to share some of these obstacles, which might also be yours, and reveal how I managed to overcome them. In doing so, I hope to demystify the idea that this is always a smooth journey and shed light on how we can face and overcome these difficulties.

Discipline

Maintaining a regular practice, such as devotional chanting, can be challenging. Sometimes, the mind refuses to cooperate: it feels tired, craves the novelty of another activity, or simply resists internally. What helped me was approaching discipline with discernment and flexibility. On one hand, I commit to daily practice, but on the other, I accept that it won’t always be perfect. Self-judgment is one of the biggest enemies in this process. Cultivating an attitude of compassion toward ourselves helps ease the pressure of “having to” do something perfectly. Some days will be more productive, others less so. When we release our happiness from this rigidity, the mind relaxes, allowing us to experience the practice with greater serenity.

Confidence

Starting devotional chanting can bring limiting thoughts like: “I don’t have a voice for this,” “Sanskrit is too difficult,” or “I’m too old to learn something new.” These thoughts often reflect a lack of confidence, either in ourselves or in the path we have chosen. To overcome this, it was essential to investigate the origin of these beliefs. I realized that the problem rarely lay in the practice itself but in deeper issues that needed to be addressed. Seeking help from a therapist can be transformative. If that’s not possible, writing about our emotions or meditating on the thoughts that arise can help clarify and dissipate these blocks.

Emotions

Devotional chanting, especially in Sanskrit, activates deep areas of our being. It is natural for unexpected emotions to surface: sadness, joy, peace, or even anger. These emotions may be linked to memories or aspects of ourselves that have been dormant. It’s important to welcome these sensations without resistance. During my journey, I learned that allowing emotions to flow without judgment was essential. Additionally, seeking support from teachers or fellow practitioners can help us better understand and manage these experiences.

Goals and Devotion

It’s easy to fall into the trap of setting rigid expectations for progress on the spiritual path. But it’s crucial to remember that the goal is not to “arrive” somewhere but to be present in the process. Surrendering to dharma—what needs to be done—helps align us with our purpose. Cultivating devotion, in this case through chanting, is an act of love and connection that strengthens us, regardless of the challenges.

This text is a reflection based on my experience, but each person will have their own path and challenges. I hope that by sharing these thoughts, you can find inspiration to face your difficulties and overcome the obstacles that arise on your journey. May devotion guide you, and may we grow together on this wonderful path of devotional chanting.

ॐ गं गणपतये नमः |
Inês Ritto