“Om. " Chanting “Om” is thought to be the universal sound, alive in everything. “Om Namah Shivaya”. This represents the five elements: earth, water, fire, air, and space. This chant can feel purifying and empowering. “Lokah Samastah Sukinoh Bhavantu”. This translates to: “May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all. ”
“The joy of the Lord is my strength” (Nehemiah 8:10). Use this mantra when you’re facing a challenge to feel His power working in you. “All things work together for good” (Romans 8:28). When you’re feeling stressed or hopeless, remind yourself that He has a plan for you. “The Lord is near to all who call on Him” (Psalm 145:18). Try this mantra if you find yourself feeling lonely or out of touch with God.
“I have a purpose, my life has purpose. " Struggling to feel connected to your life’s goals and meanings? Try out this emboldening chant. “I am enough, I am worthy. " Confidence can be complicated for anyone. Help to see all the great things you are through this gorgeous mantra. “This is exactly where I’m meant to be. " Regret and uncertainty can take a major toll day to day. Use this chant to change your mind’s narrative.
Use any melody you’d like. Once you settle into a rhythm with a melody, focus on repeating the same pattern over and over. For example, if you’re chanting “om”, you may hold the “o” sound and slowly taper down into the “m. " Or, you could just as easily use a short “o” sound, then follow with a long “m” sound. Many people prefer chanting silently because it’s easier to focus on the meaning of the words.
You can always set a timer to 15-30 minutes and chant as well. Though for some, the alarm at the end of a peaceful chanting period is pretty disruptive. Or, try something simpler. Chanting silently for 3-5 minutes before a big meeting, test, or interview is a great way to enter a positive headspace.
What do I want? Am I looking for focus, peace, or spiritual connection? What am I grateful for? My life is filled with so many blessings already. What do the people around me need? We’re all connected, and by meditating on the desires of others, you’ll feel more altruistic and at peace.
The benefits are still a little mysterious, but chanting mantras has also been thought to improve PTSD symptoms and emotional exhaustion.
Think about things that help you feel more focused and relaxed. Maybe you’ll want to add a candle or a rain sound machine.
Whatever position you take on, keep your back straight, but not rigid. Do your best to avoid slouching. [10] X Research source Many people choose a cross-legged meditation position. Make this positions easier by putting your back against a wall and using a towel under your ankles. [11] X Research source Or, sit upright in a chair. Press your thighs against the chair and make sure your feet have good contact with the ground. Keep your spine straight and your chest raised.
Relaxing prior to mantra chanting can help you go into the practice with the best possible mindset.
During deep breathing, your abdomen should rise as you inhale and slowly drop as you exhale.
