Mantras are like medicine for the soul. When we select a word or a series of words to repeat in the form of a Mantra we are affirming it to ourselves and allowing its meaning to seep below the surface into our subconscious, helping to shift our negative habits and patterns into positive ones.
Although Mantras are often chanted, spoken and repeated in the ancient language of Sanskrit, they can be practiced in all languages world wide. Sanskrit is often referred to as the "Mother of all Languages". It is the dominant classical language of the subcontinent of India and is one of the official 22 languages of India. It is also the liturgical language of Hinduism, Buddhism and Jainism.
One of the most popular words that is used as a Mantra is the word OM. Many yoga classes ( including the ones I teach) begin and end with the instructor leading the students in the practice of chanting OM three times. Although the direct meaning of the word OM can vary, I like to explain it as "the vibration encompassing all things in our Universe. It was the first vibration/humming sound of the Universe. It represents the birth, death and re birth process."
When chanting the sound OM (sounds like AUM) one is said to be filled with peace and be in harmonic resonance with the Universe. If you have ever been witness to a room full of people chanting the OM mantra you would have noticed the energy shift immediately to a peaceful calm stillness. This is the desired effect of Mantra.
This months mantra to try out for yourself...Keeping it simple we will start with OM. Have fun with it! It takes a while to get comfortable with Mantras and hearing your own voice resonate around you! I promise you though, you WILL feel the vibrations if you give it enough of a chance.
Say out loud or in your head the word "OM" inhale deeply and let the vibration fill out the entire exhale, feeling the energy flow through your body... pause... inhale deeply and repeat "OM" as many times necessary to connect with the stillness within.
If you wish, you can close your practice as I do by holding my hands at hearts center, palms together, bowing deeply adding the sanskrit word SHANTI ( Peace)...so you are saying