How chanting changed my life
Disclaimer: I don’t align myself with any specific religious or spiritual organization, nor do I endorse any particular one. Instead, I draw inspiration from various religious and philosophical traditions, incorporating practices that enhance my life.
In recent times, I’ve been grappling with a sense of deep anxiety due to a multitude of reasons. I’ve found myself dissatisfied with my work and feeling lost in my personal life, and I’ve felt utterly trapped in this state of suffering. Over the past few weeks, anxiety has gripped me tightly, to the point where I sought medical advice and underwent tests, which thankfully returned normal results. Yet, internally, I continued to experience breathlessness.
It was during this trying period that I decided to resurrect my long-abandoned chanting practice, which I had forsaken for reasons I won’t delve into at this moment. However, I want to emphasize the profound impact chanting has had on my life since I rekindled this practice. I’ve gradually started to feel more serene, peaceful, patient, and in control of my emotions. It’s as though I’ve reconnected with my inner self and am slowly regaining control over the course of my life. I understand that this journey will require time and effort, but I genuinely believe I’m heading in the right direction.
So, what do I chant, you may wonder? Coming from a Hindu background, my family has always had a deep devotion to Lord Hanuman and Lord Krishna. I’ve been primarily reciting the Hanuman Chalisa because Hanuman is revered as the liberator from troubles, often referred to as ‘Sankatmochan.’ Additionally, I’ve also been immersing myself in various Krishna bhajans. To help you engage in these chants, I’d like to share some of my favorite YouTube videos that you can use as a guide for singing along.
Hanuman Chalisa by Krishna Das
Hare Krishna Mahamantra by Madhurika Devi
Mama Deva Deva by Jahnavi Harrison
If you’re anything like me, coming from a scientific background and a community that seeks to rationalize everything, allow me to offer a scientific perspective on how chanting works, at least based on my own experiences. Chanting comprises three fundamental elements: music, prayer, and focus.
Firstly, the music accompanying chanting is inherently soothing, which serves to calm one’s inner turmoil and reestablish emotional control. The sense of relaxation that washes over you can be immensely comforting.
Secondly, there’s the aspect of prayer. When we chant, we often express gratitude to the universe, beseeching it to guide us through difficult times. This act of prayer involves placing our faith in the universe and surrendering what’s beyond our control. This faith fosters acceptance within us and enhances our ability to perceive things with greater clarity.
Lastly, we have focus. As we release our grip on matters we cannot influence, we redirect our attention to the aspects of our lives that we can control. Throughout the chanting process, we gain valuable insights into our current situation, identify actionable steps to improve it, and chart a course for personal growth, enabling us to overcome the challenges that lie ahead.
This trio of elements delivers a potent blend of inner peace and bliss, which is especially essential in our fast-paced modern world. My intention is to maintain my chanting practice this time, without abandoning it as I did in the past. If you want to hear more of my experiences or discuss spirituality, feel free to get in touch with me through my instagram handle — ninepointsomeone.
Hare Krishna!
