Yoga is not just a physical exercise; it is a way of life, a path towards self-transformation that occurs at all levels – physical, mental and spiritual. Among the most effective means in this process is the use of voicing and chants, mantras. These powerful vibrations can take your practice to the next level, deepen your meditation experience and improve your health. You can read more about yoga chanting and mantras in this blog post where we will discuss some of the strongest yoga chanting and mantras that you can use in your practice, their origin, use, and tips on how to implement them in your practice.
What Are Mantras?
Mantras are divine chants or vibrations uttered while meditating or practicing yoga with the aim of concentrating on that special sound, evoking divine power, and producing the feeling of tranquility and the balance of the spirit, the mind and the body. The word mantra originated from the Sanskrit language where it is translated as a composition of ‘manas’ which refer to the mind and ‘tra’ which is a tool or instrument. It has been employed for thousands of years in several religious disciplines to enable prayer, focus, and sanctification.
The Science Behind Mantras
Hence there is empirical evidence within scientific research that suggests that chanting mantras can influence the brain and the body significantly. The constant reciting can activate the vagus nerve and decrease stress, anxiety, and depression, as well as increase the focus. Oscillations during chanting also facilitate matching the brain waves, helping the individuals to achieve relaxation and focus. Research has suggested that a mantra can have an influence on the basic vital signs including the pulse rate, blood pressure, and respiratory rate and thereby contribute to the overall physical well-being in addition to the mental health.
Benefits of Chanting Mantras in Yoga
1. Enhanced Concentration
The first of the many effects of using mantras is that it enhances concentration. This is because the practice that is used in the mantra chanting is repetitive in nature which reduces the incidence of distractions. This can be very helpful especially in performing yoga activities in which the main emphasis is placed on breathing and certain body exercises. By doing so, one who practices Yoga is able to have better concentration on what he or she is doing making the experience even better.
2. Stress Reduction
The word mantras are spoken in a rhythmical manner and this can be employed to settle the nervous system and thereby eliminate stress and anxiety. This calming effect is attributed to its ability to activate the Parasympathetic Nervous System which brings rest and balance to the stress created by the Fight-Or-Flight Response. Other studies have also shown that the regular practice of mantra chanting leads to reduced cortisol level which is a stress hormone and hence helps in combating stress on the body and the mind.
3. Spiritual Connection
Chants have for along time been used to create a connection between man and higher dimensions and God. Repetition of mantras can ensure that some of the aspects of the personality, which are in the spiritual domain, are activated, and the practitioner can have the experience of the perceived proximity to the Higher Self. This spiritual connection can be a strong source of inspiration and comfort.
Also Read: Discover the significance of mantras with Sadhguru.
4. Improved Physical Health
The daily practice of chanting can decrease the levels of stress and anxiety in the cardiovascular system and, at the same time, increase the blood pressure and the chances of obtaining a balanced heart rhythm. The chant in a way produces physical waves which can assist in the generation of the body’s energy fields and to balance the body’s system. Also, the functioning and effectiveness of the lungs are blessed by the overlying, regular, deep breathing coupled with mantra chanting.
Also Read: Understand the healing power of mantras on Himalayan Institute.
Most Powerful Yoga Mantras to Try
1. Om (Aum)
”Om,” is most revered sound in Hinduism and Buddhism, and stands for the cosmic sound or vibration, reflecting the ultimate reality or divine consciousness.
How to Chant
- Choose a comfortable position by sitting erect and aligning the spine.
- Breathe in with your eyes closed please.
- On expiration, articulate the syllables of ‘Om,’ and let them vibrate from your lower abdomen.
- So still yourself and experience the beat in every fiber of your being.
- Continue chanting for a number of minutes, concentrating on the tone of the chant vocalized.
2. Gayatri Mantra
Gayatri Mantra or the Gayatri prayer is one of the oldest and most potent Vedic prayer formulas. It is a prayer for enlightenment where one appeals to the divine light to shine in the believers’ minds or hearts. It is the prayer sung to the god of the sun – Savitri and aims at invoking the divine light in ourselves.
Text
“`Om Bhur Bhuvah Svah
Tat Savitur Varenyam
Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi
Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat“`
How to Chant
- The patients are advised to sit in a comfortable position with their back straight and their eyes closed.
- Let’s breathe to calm down a little:
- Pray the mantra aloud, but do so deliberately, with conscious attention paid to each phoneme and its significance.
- Practice repeating the mantra, letting its energy seep into your awareness.
3. Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra
Also referred to as the Mrita Sanjivan Mantra, the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra is a very effective chant to use to invoke the healing powers, health and protection and freedom from suffering and the fear of death. This prayer can also be chanted to help the body, emotions and spirit be healed, or as protection from any ill intends energies.
Text
“` Om Tryambakam Yajamahe
Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam
Urvarukamiva Bandhanan
Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat “`
How to Chant
- Make yourself comfortable and choose a place where you won’t be disturbed before starting.
- Again and again breathe in deeply and while exhaling repeat the mantra softly and with piety.
- Ideally, this mantra is chanted 108 times, and one may use a mala as a counting tool to ensure that the goal is met.
4. Shanti Mantra
The Shanti Mantra is a peace invocation, so that the individual as well as existence finds peace and serenity. This form of music is particularly employed at the start or end of any activity to establish harmony and ensure everyone is relaxed.
Text
“`
Om Sahana Vavatu
Sahanau Bhunaktu
Sahaveeryam Karavavahai
Tejasvinavadhitamastu Ma Vidvishavahai
Om Shanti Shanti Shanti
“`
How to Chant
- It’s recommended that you sit comfortably and take few breaths before proceeding through the questionnaire.
- He said the mantra in a low and soothing tone.
- Other related words are to be chanted with a clear intention of having more of peace and harmony in the world, the centre and surroundings.
- Say it a few times and the healing energy should penetrate your soul.
5. Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu
The literal translation is: May there be happiness and well being for all beings. It encourages compassion, not to harm any living being, and to love all. The simplicity combined with the profound meaning of the mantra makes it perfect to add to any yoga session since it reminds people of the interconnected world based on tolerance and compassion.
Text
“`Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu“`
How to Chant
- Join an erect sitting posture and ensure that your eyes are shut tight.
- Breathe in the air and then breathe out.
- Otherwise, repeat the mantra with the pure motivation to manifest love and happiness in oneself and others.
- Pause and say the mantra several times, planning on embracing warmth and being kind to others.
6. Om Mani Padme Hum
This is a Tibetan Buddhist mantra often referred to as the ‘Jewel in the Lotus’ mantra. It is said to attract the divine grace of Chenrezig, who represents compassion. Every syllable in the mantra is significant and points to certain stages of the process of spiritual development.
Text
Om Mani Padme Hum
How to Chant
- Find a comfortable chair and be sure to turn off any devices that may disturb you.
- Stop for a moment, and try to catch your breath.
- Recite the mantra aloud but not too fast, you must pay attention to each sound.
- Imagine the lotus flower blooming in your heart as an emblem of compassionate awakening.
7. Om Namah Shivaya
This powerful mantra is for Lord Shiva – the destroyer, one of the Trimurti or Hindu trinity. ”Om Namah Shivaya” translates to “I bow to Shiva,” paying respects to the divinity within and embracing the energy of transformation symbolized by Shiva.
Text
Om Namah Shivaya
How to Chant
- Take a comfortable seated position with your back straight.
- Breathe in and out while keeping your eyes shut.
- Recite the Mantra ‘Om Namah Shivaya’ with respect and humility.
- Experience the vibrations of change and rebirth when chanting.
8. Om Gum Ganapataye Namaha
This mantra is addressed to Lord Ganesha who is also known as the destroyer of obstacles. Reciting this mantra helps seek Ganesha’s blessings to overcome obstacles and succeed in tasks.
Text
Om Gum Ganapataye Namaha
How to Chant
- Imagine yourself sitting in a calm and dusky area with your eyes shut.
- Breathe a few times to get yourself in the right frame of mind.
- The mantra to be chanted is to concentrate on the removal of the barriers and attracting all the good things.
- Imagine Ganesha removing the obstacles for your desired objectives.
9. Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
This mantra is a prayer to Lord Vishnu, known as the protector or the preserver among the Hindu trinity. It prays for spiritual development and shield against evils in the spiritual realm.
Text
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya
How to Chant
- Take a comfortable position and keep your eyes shut.
- I suggest that you take a few deep breaths and try to relax.
- Recite the mantra with special emphasis on a protection and guidance aspect.
- Try to create an image of a light shield around you coming from Vishnu.
10. Hare Krishna Maha Mantra
The Hare Krishna mantra can thus be described as a devotional call or chant in the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition. It is a prayer in which devotees seek the love and blessings of Lord Krishna and Lord Rama. The mantra is recognized to possess a happy and positive vibration.
Text
Hare Krishna, Hare Krishna,
Krishna Krishna, Hare Hare,
Hare Rama, Hare Rama,
Rama Rama, Hare Hare
How to Chant
- Find a comfortable position where you are sitting right now and shut your eyes.
- Breathe in deeply and then blow the air out.
- Recite the prayer enthusiastically and passionately.
- The vibration, the feeling, the breath, the divine love is felt when singing.
11. Om tare tuttare ture soha
Green Tara, also known as Tara the Mother of All Buddhas, is the deity of compassionate action. It is recited for Tara’s immediate assistance as well as for protection.
Text
Om Tare Tuttare Ture Darshi
How to Chant
- Find a private location where you can sit comfortably and then shut your eyes.
- Let me catch my breath before we continue with this conversation.
- Recite it aloud, but slowly and distinctly, making sure you pronounce every syllable clearly.
- Think of Green Tara standing in front of you and showering you with protection and blessings.
12. Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
This is a prayer for the welfare and happiness of all beings and can also be referred to as an affirmation. It creates world peace and unity, therefore encourages people to treat each other with love and care.
Text
- Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah
- Sarve Santu Niramayah
- Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu
- Ma Kashchid Dukha Bhag Bhavet
How to Chant
- To assume an ergonomic position, maintain your spine erect while sitting.
- Take a few moments of your time and breathe deeply with your eyes shut.
- You should always chant the mantra with a good intention or wish for the wellbeing of all mankind.
- This is a time to start trusting in love and letting the energies of compassion and kindness flow through you and from you.
13. Om Asato Ma Sadgamaya
These are but saying to call upon for help from ignorance to get to truth from darkness to get into light, from death to have an immortal life. This is an amazing call and invocation to speak of spirituality, to embrace light and knowledge.
Text
Om Asato Ma Sadgamaya
Tamaso Ma Jyotir Gamaya
Mrityor Ma Amritam Gamaya
How to Chant
- Find a calm environment and then clear your thoughts by soothing your mind with a few minutes of precious time shut-eye.
- Okay, let me take a few breaths to focus my thoughts calmly.
- Saying the mantra – repeat it slowly, with an emphasis on each word, and try to imagine what the mantra means.
- Imagine that you stand in the middle of a perfectly dark and empty place and there is a clear and straight path of light and truth leading to the top, the path of enlightenment.
14. Oh Shrimathi Mahalakshmiye super fantastic namaha
This mantra is committed to the Goddess Lakshmi, who is the goddess of wealth, wealth, and success. Reciting this mantra brings positivity and success in one’s endeavors as it symbolizes the showering of Lakshmi’s blessings of wealth, health, and prosperity.
Text
Sir Shreem Maha Lakshmiyei Namaha
How to Chant
- Hold your posture as relaxed but not slouched with your back straight.
- The beauty of your soul shall reveal itself soon enough… Breathe in deeply and shut your eyes.
- Recite the mantra with a reminiscent of the desire of attracting prosperity and wealth.
- Imagine an essential essential oil light radiance of good health and prosperity enveloping you.
15. Om Aim Saraswatyai Namaha
This mantra belongs to The Goddess Saraswati who is a symbol of knowledge, music, and arts. Reciting this chant pray for Saraswati’s blessings to help and support the individual’s progress intellectually and in creative pursuits.
Text
Om Aim Saraswatyai Namaha
How to Chant
- Now you should find a place to sit, where there is silence, and cross your arms.
- Choosing the right strategy and attitudes: Close your eyes for a moment and take several deep breaths.
- Recite the mantra with energy and special emphasis on the words ‘let wisdom in and let creativity flow’.
- Imagine, a flow of spirit and information coming to you like water running down a stream.
Tips for Incorporating Mantras into Your Yoga Practice
Set an Intention
Begin your practice by setting a clear intention for your mantra chanting. This helps to focus your mind and energy. An intention can be as simple as seeking peace, healing, or spiritual growth. Setting an intention aligns your practice with a specific goal, making it more meaningful and directed.
Find Your Space
Choose a quiet and comfortable place for your practice to minimize distractions. Creating a dedicated space for mantra chanting can enhance the quality of your practice, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the experience. Consider adding elements such as candles, incense, or a small altar to create a sacred atmosphere.
Use a Mala
A mala (prayer beads) can help you keep count of your repetitions, especially if you aim to chant the mantra 108 times. Using a mala can enhance your focus and provide a tactile element to your practice. Each bead represents one repetition, helping you stay present and mindful throughout the chanting.
Consistency is Key
Regular practice enhances the benefits of mantra chanting. Try to incorporate it into your daily yoga or meditation routine. Consistency builds familiarity and deepens your connection with the mantras, allowing their transformative power to unfold over time.
Listen and Feel
Pay attention to the sound and vibration of the mantra. Feel the resonance in your body and let it guide you into a deeper state of meditation. The vibrational quality of mantras can have a profound impact on your physical and energetic body, helping to align and balance your chakras.
Integrate with Asanas
You can integrate mantra chanting with your yoga asanas (poses) to create a more holistic practice. For example, chant “Om” while holding a standing pose like Tadasana (Mountain Pose) or during the transitions between poses. This integration can enhance the synergy between your physical and spiritual practices, creating a more unified experience.
Experiment with Different Mantras
There are countless mantras to explore, each with its unique energy and purpose. Experiment with different mantras to find the ones that resonate most with you. Some may be more suitable for specific intentions or stages in your life, allowing you to tailor your practice to your evolving needs.
Deepening Your Practice with Mantra Meditation
Mantra meditation is a powerful way to deepen your practice and harness the full potential of mantras. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get started:
Step 1: Choose Your Mantra
Select a mantra that resonates with your intention. It could be one of the traditional mantras mentioned earlier or a personal affirmation that holds special meaning for you.
Step 2: Find a Quiet Place
Choose a quiet and comfortable space where you won’t be disturbed. Sit in a comfortable position with your spine straight, either on a chair or a meditation cushion.
Step 3: Set Your Intention
Take a few moments to set your intention for the meditation. This could be related to what you hope to achieve or experience during the practice, such as peace, clarity, or healing.
Step 4: Begin Chanting
Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Begin chanting your chosen mantra, either silently or aloud, in a rhythmic and continuous manner. Focus on the sound and vibration of the mantra, allowing it to fill your awareness.
Step 5: Maintain Your Focus
If your mind begins to wander, gently bring your focus back to the mantra. It’s natural for thoughts to arise, but the practice is about returning to the mantra each time you become aware of distractions.
Step 6: Feel the Vibration
Pay attention to the physical sensations and vibrations created by the mantra. Notice how it affects your body, mind, and energy field. Allow yourself to be fully immersed in the experience.
Step 7: Conclude the Meditation
After a set period (start with 10-15 minutes and gradually increase), gently bring your chanting to a close. Sit in silence for a few moments, absorbing the effects of the meditation. Reflect on any insights or feelings that have arisen.
Step 8: Express Gratitude
Take a moment to express gratitude for the practice and any benefits you have received. This can help to reinforce the positive effects and integrate them into your daily life.
Exploring Advanced Mantra Practices
For those looking to deepen their mantra practice further, there are several advanced techniques to explore:
Japa Meditation
Japa meditation involves the continuous repetition of a mantra, often with the aid of a mala. This practice can be done silently, whispered, or aloud. The repetitive nature of Japa helps to deepen concentration and connect with the deeper layers of consciousness.
Kirtan
Kirtan is a form of call-and-response chanting often performed in a group setting. It involves singing mantras and devotional songs, accompanied by musical instruments. Kirtan can be a joyful and uplifting experience, fostering a sense of community and collective energy.
Mantra Yoga
Mantra yoga is a comprehensive practice that integrates mantras with yoga asanas, pranayama (breath control), and meditation. This approach aims to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit through the combined power of these practices. Mantra yoga can enhance the depth and effectiveness of your overall yoga practice.
Bija Mantras
Bija (seed) mantras are single-syllable sounds that represent specific energies or aspects of the divine. Examples include “Lam” for the root chakra, “Vam” for the sacral chakra, and “Ram” for the solar plexus chakra. Chanting Bija mantras can help to activate and balance the chakras, promoting energetic harmony.
Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them
Difficulty Focusing
One of the most common challenges in mantra chanting is maintaining focus. The mind tends to wander, especially for beginners. To overcome this, start with shorter sessions and gradually increase the duration. Using a mala can also help maintain focus by providing a tactile anchor.
Doubts and Resistance
It’s natural to experience doubts or resistance when starting a new practice. Remind yourself of the benefits and keep an open mind. Consistent practice can help to overcome these challenges and reveal the transformative power of mantras.
Finding the Right Mantra
With so many mantras to choose from, it can be challenging to find the right one. Experiment with different mantras and pay attention to how they make you feel. Trust your intuition and choose the mantra that resonates most with your current needs and intentions.
Consistency
Maintaining a regular practice can be challenging amidst the demands of daily life. Set a specific time and place for your mantra practice to create a routine. Even a few minutes of daily chanting can make a significant difference over time.
Testimonials: Real-Life Experiences with Mantras
Healing and Transformation
Many practitioners have experienced profound healing and transformation through mantra chanting. For instance, Sarah, a yoga teacher, shares how chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra helped her overcome anxiety and find inner peace. “The vibrations of the mantra resonated deeply within me, providing a sense of protection and calm. It became a source of strength during challenging times,” she says.
Enhanced Meditation
John, a long-time meditator, found that integrating mantras into his practice enhanced his meditation experience. “Chanting ‘Om’ before my meditation sessions helped to clear my mind and deepen my focus. It created a sense of sacred space, allowing me to connect more deeply with my inner self,” he explains.
Spiritual Growth
For many, mantra chanting has been a catalyst for spiritual growth. Maria, a devoted yogi, describes her experience with the Gayatri Mantra: “Chanting the Gayatri Mantra opened my heart to a higher consciousness. It brought a sense of clarity and purpose to my spiritual journey, helping me to connect with the divine light within.”
Conclusion
Chanting and mantras are powerful tools that can transform your yoga practice, bringing profound benefits to your mind, body, and spirit. By incorporating these sacred sounds into your routine, you can enhance your concentration, reduce stress, and connect with a deeper sense of peace and spirituality. Start exploring these powerful mantras today and experience the transformative power they hold.
Remember, the true essence of yoga lies in the union of the self with the divine, and mantras are a beautiful way to deepen this connection. Namaste.
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