Mantras are sacred sounds or phrases repeated in meditation as a form of nada yoga, the yoga of sound, to harmonise the mind and body. Originating in Hindu and Buddhist traditions, the vibrational quality of mantras, like the universal sound "Om," is believed to balance the mind and body. Repeated silently, aloud, or as a chant, mantras are used for meditation, stress relief, and self-affirmation, making them a versatile tool for inner growth and mindfulness.
While singing soothes through melody, focusing on lyrics and self-expression, mantra chanting helps us calm the mind and focus by emphasising vibration and inner transformation rather than tune.
I use mantras similarly to singing—to slow myself down before practice or to lift my spirits when I’m feeling low, without attaching any religious connotation. I’ve always been critical of my voice, so singing was something I did in private, away from others. But when I first chanted mantras within a sangha, it felt like my voice finally came out of its shell. The purpose of the chanting was stronger than the negative thoughts my mind whispered about my voice. Once I overcame those unconscious fears, I gave myself permission to chant mantras freely, no matter where I was. Sometimes I repeat them silently; other times, I chant aloud—it depends on the moment.
How I use mantras varies with my activity and mood. Sometimes weeks go by without using them, and other times I use them daily. I love starting a yoga asana practice with some chanting—not to connect to something spiritual but to bring my mind into the present moment. It feels like saying, “I’m here. We can start.” While hiking or spending time in nature, I sometimes play mantras through my headphones and chant along in my head. It helps me stay present in the moment, focusing on where I am rather than any discomfort or tiredness from the hike. Using mantras during meditation also helps me focus, deepen my awareness, and create a sense of inner calm.
There are mantras I use in the morning to cultivate self-love and others in the evening to express gratitude for the day that has passed.
Keeping a melodic aspect to mantras helps me enhance their meditative and transformative power by combining the vibrational energy of sounds with the soothing effects of melody. This practice bridges mantra repetition and chanting, making the experience more engaging and emotionally resonant.
Here are some mantras I enjoy:
Thank you
I am grateful for this day
No matter what happens today, I will be kind
I can let go of what no longer serves me
A few Sanskrit mantras I use:
Om Namo Namah
Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha
Aad Guray Nameh
Chattr Chakkr Vartee
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