What are MANTRAS and what are they for

  • Dec 21, 2021
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Mantras: what are they, what are they for and examples

There are words that have a certain power and a special effect on people. Such is the case of mantras or chants to meditate, which are linguistic formulas that have been used since ancient times. immemorial in different cultures in order to increase concentration and maintain focus at the time of the meditation. In addition, mantras serve as chants that attract peace and inner balance in the human being.

Now, how should mantras be used? o What is the meaning of mantras? In this Psychology-online article you will find all the information you need, as we will explain whatwhat are mantras and what are they for. Also, you will see some examples of mantras and even the recommendations to choose which is the most powerful mantra of all for you, so that you can calm your mind and meditate with tranquility.

You may also like: What are mandalas and their origin

Index

  1. What are mantras?
  2. What are mantras for?
  3. What are the types of mantras and their meaning with examples
  4. How to choose my mantra?

What are mantras?

The mantras are words, phrases or syllables that are sung with a melodic and sequential rhythm. Its purpose is to cause a positive effect on a spiritual, psychological and emotional level in the person who recites them. Also, in some cultures they are used to invoke a deity during meditation.

What is the meaning of mantras? Etymologically, mantra is a word that comes from Sanskrit. It is formed by the union of 2 words that are: "man" (mind) and "tra". By joining both words, the meaning of "liberation" is acquired. Hence, their importance as some sound elements that can affect the environment around us in a positive or even negative way.

Buddhist mantras

For religions such as Buddhism or Hinduism, mantras are considered sacred words. Its main purpose is to generate a certain self-control of thoughts to be able to connect effectively with the internal "I" to seek balance. If your goal is this, maybe our article on How to find inner peace and be happy helps you.

In some cases, mantras are phrases that are understood, but in other situations they are not understandable. However, according to Buddhism, its foundation is based on the existence of universal waves that can create a connection between the universe and the interior of the person who meditates. In addition, from a scientific point of view, mantras generate certain vibrations that affect the rib cage and brain waves, leading to a state of sedation and tranquility.

What are mantras for?

The power of mantras is in the fixation and repetition of phrases, syllables or words to relax the mind and body in such a way that the chants recited lead to a complete state of meditation. Likewise, there is a belief that mantras help eliminate or block negative thoughts to achieve a good inner balance, since they focus the emotions, stabilize them and generate a great spiritual impact.

From a psychological point of view, meditation mantras serve to internalize and reaffirm concepts. In this way, certain behaviors and some wrong personal beliefs can be modified.

Coupled with this, there are many benefits and uses of positive mantras. Among the main ones we can mention the following:

  • Stress and anxiety levels decrease.
  • They improve concentration and memory.
  • They lower blood pressure.
  • They relax the body and mind.
  • They are adjuvants to relieve certain pain.
  • They serve to enhance creativity.
  • They fill the spirit with energy.
  • They awaken the conscience.
  • They calm the mind and strengthen it.

Healing mantra

For some religions, powerful mantras are also perfect for communicating with some spiritual entities, as well as for fighting against certain "negative forces." In this sense, according to Hinduism, mantras are used to heal past wounds and achieve peace with the "inner self".

In fact, the first appearances of mantras for meditation are reflected in the ancient religious text Rigveda, in which they were defined as words of worship, reverence and prayer. For Buddhism, mantras are also a connection portal with higher entities and a way to rise above consciousness into pure states of concentration.

Likewise, mantra and yoga are closely linked, as meditation mantras are used to channel all energy into through the "asanas" or postures, since the chants serve to connect the body and mind with a feeling of well-being and peace. For more information, see our article Yoga for anxiety: benefits and exercises.

Mantras: what are they, what are they for and examples - What are mantras for?

What are the types of mantras and their meaning with examples.

If you wonder what kind of mantras exist, you should know that there are different mantras, which depend on the religion and culture from which they come. Some of them have an ancient use. The powerful and well-known mantras are the Buddhist and Hindu mantras. In these religions, meditation has a very deep meaning, therefore, these songs are very present in their culture.

If you want to know what the mantras mean, now we will explain it to you in the following list of mantras, which are very appropriate to heal and balance the body and mind in the meditation. If you are interested in knowing more about this topic, read our post Effects of meditation on the body and mind. This knowledge will also help you to know how mantras should be used:

  • Mantra "Om ah hum": this powerful mantra means "I am that" or "I am what I am." It is one of the simplest chants to start meditation and it has a powerful meaning.
  • Mantra "Om": it is a mantra to meditate that is of almost universal use. Its sound is related to the sound or vibration that creation naturally emits, and its objective is to unite the one who meditates with the universe that surrounds him.
  • Mantra "Om Shanti Shanti Shanti": who recites this positive mantra connects with peace, freedom and internal balance.
  • Mantra "Om Tare Tutare Ture Soha": with this powerful mantra, fears and insecurities are released. Its purpose is to free the soul from pain and that the blessings received are lasting.
  • Mantra "Om mani padme hum": this is the meditation mantra of compassion. It is translated as "the jewel that the lotus has", and is used to heal the soul and be more compassionate with the world around us.
  • Mantra "Om namah shivaya": This positive mantra is of Hindu origin. It is pronounced to call well-being, joy and happiness.

How to choose my mantra?

You may want to know how mantras should be used. To do this, you have to understand that mantras are used as energy magnets that interconnect with the universe to attract what is desired. That is why the main thing is to sing them out loud so that the vibrations have the desired effect. Similarly, according to ancient beliefs, it is necessary that the powerful mantra be repeated 108 times a day for a period of at least 21 days. This is why choosing a suitable mantra is essential.

What is the most powerful mantra of all for you?

The ideal is that represent your wishes and that the choice is according to what your thought and heart dictate. For example, you can opt for the more traditional mantras or form one with some relevant information for you, such as your birthday, a month of the year or something that identifies you. In fact, even the words "thank you", "I'm sorry", "I love you" are very useful as personal positive mantras.

Another excellent alternative is to look in a poem or in a book that you like, that phrase that focuses your energy. Even if it is to your liking, you can simply use the "om" and there is no problem. The important thing is that you feel very comfortable with the mantra to meditate that you chose, so that it has the effect on you that you are hoping for.

This article is merely informative, in Psychology-Online we do not have the power to make a diagnosis or recommend a treatment. We invite you to go to a psychologist to treat your particular case.

If you want to read more articles similar to Mantras: what are they, what are they for and examples, we recommend that you enter our category of Meditation and relaxation.

Bibliography

  • Blofed, J (2007). Holy words of power. Editorial Edaf. Madrid Spain. https://books.google.co.ve/books? hl = es & lr = & id = yE64aZM-UsAC & oi = fnd & pg = PA17 & dq = mantras & ots = dK64mQY3tn & sig = 5BsxUTMFxlpzIKGPRJJLMhGeUAc # v = onepage & q = mantras & f = false
  • Hurtado, B (2021). Enactive awareness and emotion in Tibetan Buddhist mantra meditation. Official magazine of the Pontifical University of Chile. http://resonancias.uc.cl/es/N%C2%BA-35/conciencia-y-emocion-enactivas-en-la-meditacion-con-mantras-del-budismo-tibetano.html
  • Naranjo, Claudio. 1992. Meditation psychology. Buenos Aires: Die
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