Mantras are the celestial sounds of the universe. They have been an important part of yoga philosophy. It is not only an integral part of Yogic wisdom but also of spiritual traditions that hold relevance in classical Indian philosophy.
Whether it is in Yogic scriptures or in the Indian Vedas and Upanishads, mantras have been considered as powerful vibrations that can help one elevate their consciousness.
Basically they are certain sounds and vibrations which when pronounced in a certain frequency deliver spiritual, physical and transformative benefits. In the Indian philosophy they hold powerful importance in the birth as well as customs related to the end of the life.
Right from a child is born, up till his death ceremony, there are in total 16 samskaras or rituals and these rituals are considered sacred because of the integration of ceremonies and mantra chantings. These mantras not only bring energy and peace but provide protection and offer spiritual connection. Let’s dive into explore sacred yoga mantras and the spiritual mantra power from birth to the end of life.
Where did the mantras originate?
The mantras have traditional origins. They have existed since the Vedic times and are mentioned in the Vedas which are considered as the oldest sticks of Hinduism and Indian philosophy.
These scriptures mention mantras, especially the Om mantra to be the cosmic sound of the Universe. It is one of the most sacred Mantras in Yoga. It is believed that the mantra Om is associated with Lord Shiva and it is from this sound that the universe emerged.
How have they been traditionally used as?
For centuries Yogis and sages have used mantras to focus their attention, activate their glands, develop inner peace and grow spiritually. Even in modern times like today they are used as a tool to relax the physical as well as the mental body and cater to the spiritual needs of life.
The spiritual power of sound in the yogic philosophy
It helps in –
· Calming down the mental noise
· Sinking breath work in a rhythm
· Boosting focus and concentration
· Relaxing down the nervous system
Mantras and their significance from birth to the end of life
Mantras and sound vibrations hold immense importance in Indian philosophy. They are practised in day to day ceremonies as well as special rituals and various spiritual practices.
Whether it is the birth ceremony of a child or the Upanayan - thread ceremony or marriage ceremonies or even the Pinda dan that is a ceremony to attain Moksha – salvation.
All of the major rituals of a human life include mantra chanting at the base of the ceremonies to make them sacred and in line with the classical scriptures.
Essence of Mantras in yoga practice
Mantras pay an important role in yoga practise. Yoga is way more than just the physical asana practices. It involves multiple aspects including breath work techniques and mantra chanting.
Pronouncing certain healing sounds in a certain frequency helps create a healing atmosphere and encourages the yogis to bring their concentration inwards. This is especially recommended in the Chakra meditations which happen to be the energy points in the body.
Basically our bodies have 7 chakras which are the seven sacred energy centres and along with meditation and mantra chanting one can activate their senses and be able to raise their consciousness beyond the physical bodies.
Mantra chanting as a part of yoga teacher training courses
Even though mantra chanting’s are ancient practises yet they hold significance in the modern day yoga teacher training courses. For instance, the 200 hours yoga teacher training in Goa, not only includes physical asana practice and teaching methodology.
But also concentrates upon mantra chanting and meditations as a major part of the training experience. This is because yoga is much more than mobility and physical exercises. It is a holistic approach to overall well-being that caters to physical, mental and emotional wellness.
Therefore mantra chanting happens to be an important element of the 200 hours YTT courses offered in the coastal paradise of Goa.
Benefits of mantra practice
· Instantly helps one to calm down
· Raises one’s energy And healing frequencies
· Helps feel connected with the higher sense of being
· Brings down cortisol levels in the body
· Helps to better manage and regulate emotions
· Enhances mindfulness
· Boosts mental clarity and mind body connection
How can you include it in your everyday life?
Including mantra chanting in your day to day life is not only easy but also practical and absolutely doable. You are not required to have excellent elocution in Sanskrit or in-depth knowledge about ancient scriptures.
You simply need to sit in a relaxed position in a calm environment and bring your energies inward at the sound and frequency of the mantras you are chanting.
For instance, even if you have just 10 minutes before or after getting out from your bed. You can simply sit on your bed with your legs folded and start the Om chanting or the chanting of the Gayatri mantra.
And within a minute of concentrated chanting you can experience a transformational shift. This 10 minute session can not only be mentally productive but also recharge you for the entire day ahead. It also helps you to come out of restlessness, over thinking and anxiety and instantly calm you down. This becomes a requirement given today’s lifestyle.
