When you think of meditation, the first sound that comes to mind is, “Om.” Some people believe that this was the first sound in the universe, but does the average person know what it means? Om is simply one of many mantras, which many people misunderstand. A mantra is not just something you utter; rather, it is key to help you unlock the doorway to a better version of yourself.
What Is A Mantra?
A mantra is a word or sound, typically one syllable, that you repeat to focus your concentration during meditation. You can speak a mantra aloud or focus on it in your mind during meditation. It is very common in Hindu and Buddhist traditions and directly translates to “mind vehicle.” Consider the fact that the entire world is made up of various sounds and vibrations, so some believe that everything is an amalgamation of various mantras. Of the many sounds in existence, several have been identified as keys to open up different dimensions of your life or experience.
According to experts, different mantras have specific effects or meanings. Working on a mantra over time can help you shift your life in a positive direction, or improve your outlook on the world. When you practice repeating a mantra, it’s possible to create positive changes in your life. In fact, some gurus believe that a mantra is something that you strive to be. Each one has a specific energy attached to it, which is why you should be aware of its origin before starting it. Understanding the origin of the mantra you repeat can help awaken the mind instead of putting you in a dull trance. Continue reading to learn about eight mantras that are great for anyone starting out in meditation or mindfulness practices.
Wooooooosaaaaaaahhhhhhhh
No, this is not a made up mantra; rather, it aims to help you release built-up tension from the body. Spiritual wellness practitioners say that this sound is great to practice if you feel like you are losing patience. The mere sound itself is a way to unleash whatever is inside of you. Expel the negative energy and tension with a long-winded sigh as you say this mantra. Take a deep inhale in and wooooooosaaaaaaaahhhhhh it out.
Om
As stated in the beginning of this article, many believe that Om was the first sound in the universe, and it may be the sound of creation. Many monks practice this sound because it is associated with higher consciousness. It is both everything and nothing, and repeating this mantra helps you tap into your power as a creator for opportunity and awareness.
Aham-Prema
Pronounced “Aah-ham-pree-mah,” this mantra directly translates to, “I am Divine Love.” Repeat this mantra during your meditation practice if you need to align yourself with divine love, i.e. everything that is unconditional love can be for you. Gratitude, adoration, emotion, compliance, acceptance, appreciation, and harmony all belong to this mantra. You should repeat this mantra 108 times in order to peacefully unite the mind, body, and soul.
Om Mani Padme Hum
The direct translation of this mantra is, “Hail the Jewel in the Lotus.” Traditionally repeated by Tibetan Buddhists to achieve an ultimate state of compassion, this mantra can be divided or seen as a whole. “Om” is the primal sound that brings harmony and alignment into your life. “Ma” strips you down from your needs, while “Ni” releases you from desire and passion. “Pad” frees you from prejudice and leaves you with only love and acceptance. Finally, “Me” gets you ready to accept the world as it is, and “Hum” frees you from hatred.
I Am Love
This is an English mantra that you can practice. Not only does it help you tap into the love you have with yourself, but also the love that you share with the universe. When you repeat this mantra, you can acknowledge your inner light and remember who you are.
So Hum
So Hum is a Sanskrit mantra that translates to, “I am that,” with “that” being the universe. Several meditation experts say that this mantra helps a person better align with the universe. It may also allow you to see or experience your oneness with the universe.
Sa Ta Na Ma
Another Sanskrit mantra that likely means, “Birth, life, death, and rebirth.” This mantra represents the various cycles of life and how things change as you move from one cycle to the next. It is beneficial to chant this mantra aloud because it is very balancing to the brain. In fact, it may help you move through the changes and seasons of life with ease.
I Accept
When it comes to gratitude, where do you begin? Sometimes, it is beneficial to start in a simple and realistic place, which is where this mantra enters the equation. No matter what you have to accept in life, this mantra can come to your aid. Although it is a simple mantra, it is quite powerful and may lead to positive change down the line.
Vincent Stevens is the senior content writer at Dherbs. As a fitness and health and wellness enthusiast, he enjoys covering a variety of topics, including the latest health, fitness, beauty, and lifestyle trends. His goal is to inform people of different ways they can improve their overall health, which aligns with Dherbs’ core values. He received his bachelor’s degree in creative writing from the University of Redlands, graduating summa cum laude. He lives in Los Angeles, CA.
