The following phrases are for counting cycles of time without using numbers. Each syllable receives the same length of time, or one beat.
1 Sa
2 Re ki
3 Ga me la
4 Ma ge ta ki
5 Pa ke na ta ki
6 Dha ge na gi ta ki
7 Ni ta ke me la ta ki
The first syllable of each phrase denotes the length of time for that cycle, such as Ga is three beats, Pa is five beats, etc. The lowercase or secondary syllables have been chosen for fluid speaking at fast tempos, and for ease of memory; and help one know where they are within the overall cycle of the phrase.
Stringing together phrases in sequence creates rhythmic mantras.
As this system is based loosely upon Sanskrit syllables and the svaras of Indian music, “a” is pronounced as “uh”; “i” is pronounced as “ee”; and “e” is pronounced as “ay”.
Common Subdivisions of 8
3 + 3 + 2 = Ga me la Ga me la Re ki
3 + 2 + 3 = Ga me la Re ki Ga me la
2 + 3 + 3 = Re ki Ga me la Ga me la
Common Resultant Rhythms
3:2 Re ki Sa Sa Re ki
4:3 Ga me la Sa Re ki Re ki Sa Ga me la
5:4 Ma ge ta ki Sa Ga me la Re ki Re ki Ga me la Sa Ma ge ta ki
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