How to use Mantras for Meditation
We believe in starting the day with positive affirmations because they can improve productivity, help control negative feelings and improve your self esteem. And who doesn't want to start their day with feeling great? Mantras can help us set the tone for our whole day.
What is a Mantra?
We can break down the word mantra to get the Sanskrit meaning.
Man = mind
Tra = vehicle or transport
Mantras in ancient spiritual practices are meaningful in a way that I don't have the experience or knowledge to fully explain. But in the modern, westernized sense, a mantra is a word, sound or phrase that you repeat to help transport your mind from a state of doing to a state of being. It can be similar to setting an intention.
How to use a Morning Mantra
Choose a simple mantra from the list below. Or perhaps you have one that easily comes to mind.
Before you rise out of bed, take a few moments or a few minutes to repeat your preferred mantra to yourself. You can repeat it internally or out loud a minimum of 3 times (but as many more as you'd like). Either way, you are setting an intention that will stick with you throughout the day whether you notice it or not.
How to use a Mantra for Meditation
Choose a mantra that resonates with you.
Find a quiet space to sit or lay.
Get comfortable and close your eyes.
Breath slowly and steadily through your nose.
Begin to repeat your mantra silently or say it out loud (this can help to shift or uplift your internal vibrations).
I like to match my mantra to my breathing. I find it helps to regulate both and keep me present.
Continue repeating your mantra until you feel a sense of calm.
When you feel ready, stop repeating it, take a few deep breaths and some slow movements. Gradually waking yourself up and opening your eyes when you're ready.
Find a quiet space to sit or lay.
Get comfortable and close your eyes.
Breath slowly and steadily through your nose.
Begin to repeat your mantra silently or say it out loud (this can help to shift or uplift your internal vibrations).
I like to match my mantra to my breathing. I find it helps to regulate both and keep me present.
Continue repeating your mantra until you feel a sense of calm.
When you feel ready, stop repeating it, take a few deep breaths and some slow movements. Gradually waking yourself up and opening your eyes when you're ready.
Here is a week's worth so you can try a new mantra everyday.
Sunday: I am grateful for all that is unfolding in my life and all that is yet to come.
Monday: I love myself first.
Tuesday: I take the time to care for my body, mind, and spirit.
Wednesdays: It is great how far I have already come.
Thursday: I push through the storm to earn my rainbow.
Friday: I am free to create my own path.
Saturday: I do things at my own pace. Life is not a race.
Don't love any of these? Check out our blog post on How to Craft Your Sankalpa (which is similar to a mantra).
If you need help getting comfy during meditation, I suggest you try some of our Meditation Cushions and Zabutons. Having the right tools to support your body can make all the difference for your meditation practice.
If you have any questions about meditation or mantra, please reach out. I'm always here to help.
xo Shelley
xo Shelley
