"You should not be carried away by the dictation of the mind, but the mind should be carried by your dictation."
A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami
A.C Bhaktivedanta Swami
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Mantra meditation has become increasingly popular in recent years. The practice consists of the two individual components of chanting mantras and meditating and has a different purpose for every person. Mantra meditation requires consistent practice, but is simple and can effect many positive changes in your life.
Every person has a different reason for meditating from health benefits to attaining a spiritual connection. Figuring out why you want to use mantra meditating will help you identify the best mantras to chant and time to dedicate to your meditation practice. There are many different health benefits to mantra meditation including lower blood pressure and heart rate, decreased anxiety and depression, less stress, and greater feelings of relaxation and general well-being. Mantra meditation can also have spiritual benefits such as liberating your mind and letting go of any attachment to things you can’t control. Find an appropriate mantra or mantras for your intention.
One of the goals of chanting mantras is to feel their subtle vibrations. This sensation can help you effect positive changes and enter a deep state of meditation. Each mantra has different vibrations and you want to find one that corresponds to your intention. Repetition of mantras can help you disconnect from any thoughts that arise during meditation and also help keep you focused on your intention. |
Once you have selected your mantra you want to set an intention.
No mantra meditation practice is complete without first setting an intention. By taking a few seconds to dedicate your practice to something, you may be able to focus more intently and achieve a deeper state of meditation. Bring your hands together in the prayer position and consider your intention. Always find a comfortable quiet place to practice mantra meditation. Dim the lights and make sure this is a time when you will not be interrupted. When you are ready to being sit in a comfortable cross legged-position with your eyes closed. Your hips should be above your knees in this sitting position so you may have to sit on pillows to achieve this. Next, place your hands on your thighs and you can use hand mudras as well. Use prayer or mala bead to help keep you focused. Chant your chosen mantra. It’s time to chant your chosen mantra! There are no prescribed times or ways to chant your mantra, so do what feels best to you. Even a small amount of mantra chanting can have significant benefits. As you chant, you should feel mantra’s vibrations in your lower belly. Meditate for as long as you want. When you’ve finished chanting your mantra, transition to a silent meditation by staying in the same seated position and feeling any sensations that arise in your body. Sit in silent meditation for as long as you like. This will allow you focus on your intention and help you achieve greater relaxation. Let your thoughts come and whenever they arise. This will teach you to focus and let go of anything you can’t control. Any |