Finding Your Personal Mantra

You are wanting to make your chanting, praying or meditating more personal - to ‘find your mantra’. That's great. Let’s have a look at what a mantra is – and what is does - to help  you begin the process...

What is a Mantra? 

A mantra, by definition, is a word, a sound, or a phrase that is repeated to aid in your concentration while meditating. But it is not a ‘record stuck in a groove’ repeated endlessly without purpose. You are not meant to ‘zone out’ while reciting a mantra, rather the opposite – you are meant to become more ‘mind-filled’.

The word 'mantra' comes from the Sanskrit words ‘Man’ (mind) and ‘tra’ (transport). So a mantra literally translates as ‘mind transport’. It is the powerful vibration that your mind will 'ride' into a deep state of meditation.

It is believed that a mantra assists in filling your mind with positive intentions, dispelling negativity and bringing you closer to the truest purest form of yourself – that which is pure awareness and consciousness. 

Mantras are considered to be capable of transformation – to be able to alter your mind. Your mantra is meant to change you.

Your personal mantra will be almost sacred in nature – a name or sound that both uplifts you and helps you concentrate during meditation. 

Finding the right mantra will depend on the nature of your meditation.

Ancient Words

If you are wanting to deepen your meditation practice, you might consider using an ancient Sanskrit mantra – so that your brain is not able to be distracted by the ‘rational content’ of the mantra, focusing instead on the vibration and energy.

A good place to start is with Om (Aum). It is the sacred sound of Hinduism, said to be the sound born when the Universe was created, and its vibration is said to be our link to creation itself. A variation is Om Shanti, Shanti, Shanti (peace of mind, peace of body, peace of speech). Another simple but powerful one is Sat, Chit, Ananda (existence, consciousness, bliss).

Affirmations

You can use a mantra in meditation to assist in giving life to and energizing the seeds of your intentions. In this case, your mantra can be an affirmation. Repeating positive affirmations is a powerful way to program your subconscious mind to help you manifest your intentions.

You can use one of the affirmations suggested with your Pranachic mala – or create one of your own. Start your affirmations with words like:

• I am ______________  (loving, fearless, enough, etc) or
• Be ____  (joyful, grateful, yourself, etc)

and you will find affirmations that resonate with you. Be positive and present-focused. The sub conscious mind responds best to your own voice and to positive instructions. It accepts what you tell it – so choose the affirmation that best supports your desire. 

Use Your Mantra

Whatever mantra you choose to begin with – make sure you repeat it at least 20 times during your meditation practice, allowing your mind time to align with its vibration. The traditional repetition is 108 – but don’t start there if you don’t have the habit. Allow yourself to become accustomed to the ritual.

And Remember...

There is no right or wrong here. What is important is that you make your mantra personal and meaningful and use it regularly.

Then you will enjoy the fulfillment and personal transformation that results.