A Daily Dose of Mantra

There is much information out there on Sanskrit mantras and chanting, but this is not what I’m going to talk about. I’m talking about mantras in your native language. Words that have meaning to you and that will support you in whatever situation you find yourself.

First, let’s look at the definition of a mantra: A sacred utterance, numinous sound, or a syllable, word, phonemes, or group of words believed by some to have psychological and spiritual power.

I personally believe that if you create your own mantra, it is more powerful in addressing your needs.

Let’s say you want to improve your health.

Think up a number of short sentences and try saying them out loud. You will find that one resonates with you more than another. Here are some examples:

My body is healthy and strong.

I am strong and healthy.

My body is healing every day.

Which of these three mantras resonated with you the most?

What is important is that you repeat the mantra several times a day for at least two months and that you do so mindfully. There are several ways in which to stay mindful. You could have a ‘Mantra Diary’ where you write your mantra down as often as you feel is needed. Make sure you handwrite your mantra with pen and paper.

You could also add some breathing techniques to your mantra. If we take that first sentence, it would look like this:

While breathing in…. My body is healthy,

While breathing out… and strong.

I addition, you could add some physical movement or stretches to your breathing and your mantra.

Stand with your feet hip width apart and your arms hanging down by your side. Now breathe in, saying or thinking your mantra, and sweep your arms up over your head. Then breathe out your mantra, and lower your arms back down to your side. In this way, you are internalizing and incorporating your mantra more fully.

Remember, you can create mantras for anything from health to wealth.

For more mantras and exercises, check our ‘Survive Life… And Live It Up’.

Namaste