Mantra Meditation: Sounds and Vibrations That Can Transform Your Meditation Practice.
Mantra is an instrument of the mind to enter a deep meditative state.
The word mantra comes from two Sanskrit words — ‘man,’ meaning the mind, and ‘tra’, meaning tool.
It’s the science of using powerful sounds and vibrations to still the mind. Most religions and cultures have some version of mantras in their tradition.
Mantras are especially beneficial for those with difficulty sitting still, focusing on their breath, or observing their thoughts during meditation.
Three ways to chant mantras:
#1. Japa (chanting aloud)
This includes listening to mantras, singing, or dancing to them. This can be done alone or in a group, while working or in a focussed way.
It’s believed that we can absorb up to a third of vibrations while chanting aloud with focus.
#2 Ajapa (chanting silently)
In this practice, you start with chanting aloud for a few minutes and then gradually move into silent chanting.
This requires more focused and dedicated practice and should be taken up after practicing loud chanting for a few weeks.
