Mantras: what they are and how to use them in yoga practice.
Mantras are powerful tools to approach a new fundamental part of meditation and rediscover our deep self.
Mantras are sacred words or phrases, in Sanskrit, that are repeated as part of a spiritual or meditation practice.
Their use is common in many spiritual traditions, including Hinduism and Buddhism, but they have also been adopted in other meditation practices not linked to specific religious traditions.
Here some informations on what mantras are and how to use them during meditation:
What they are:
- Spiritual Meaning:
They are often associated with the divine, spiritual concepts or positive ideas. Their repetition is considered a way to connect with the spiritual dimension. - Vibration and sound:
In the practice of mantras, it is very important the vibration and sound of the words themselves. The sound of the mantra is believed to have a positive impact on the mind and body. - Sanskrit:
Many mantras come from the Sanskrit tradition, one of the sacred languages of India. Practitioners often memorize the mantra in its original language.
How to use them during the meditation:
- Focus:
During meditation, the mantra can serve as a focal point. We can focus on repeating the mantra to keep our mind focused and calm in the flow of the thoughts. - Breathing:
Connect the mantra to your breathing. For example, repeat one part of the mantra as you inhale and the other part as you exhale. This can help synchronize your mind with the rhythm of your breathing. - Constant Repetition:
Repeat the mantra constantly with a concentrated mind. You could do this out loud or silently, depending on your preferences and your surroundings. - Consistency:
The practice of mantras often requires consistency over time. Repeat the mantra regularly as part of your meditation routine for maximum benefits. - Intention:
Set a positive intention as you repeat the mantra. This can add a level of personal meaning to the practice. - Teacher guidance:
If possible, learn mantras from a qualified teacher. This can help you better understand the meaning and correct pronunciation.
One of the most famous mantras is:
Om Namah Shivaaya: I bow down to Lord Shiva.
It brings peace and harmony in pratictioner mind.
Remember that the effectiveness of mantras may vary from person to person. Some find this practice to be very beneficial, while others prefer different approaches to meditation. Experiment and find what works best for you.
If you want to immediately put them into practice in your meditations you can consult my guided meditations on my YouTube channel or directly by watching this video.
You can also practice your meditations by downloading my app:
htps://apps.apple.com/us/app/yogamat…
https://play.google.com/store/apps/de…
Also, you can always connect with my daily practice by following me on instagram .
See you soon!
Namaste