Mantra: meaning, benefits, how to find it?

Definition: what is a mantra?

The mantras are positive phrases from sacred texts transmitted from generation to generation in Hindu and Tibetan cultures. “Those are repetitions of a sound (such as the best known Mantra “Om”) or a combination of sounds (such as “Om Nama Shivaya”). Singing focuses our concentration and defocuses us from daily concerns and worries, according to Anaïs Bonnamy, clinical psychologist. “We are gradually settling into a anchoring the present moment. It also reduces the level of vigilance, especially in hypersensitive people who regularly feel attacked by their environment.”

What is the meaning of a mantra?

In the Tibetan language, “tra” means “the tool” or “the instrument“. “Man” is “thought” explains Anaïs Bonnamy. The mantra is a tool that prevents mental agitations. “Through the repetition of words, the song channels” continues the psychologist, “Singing and spreading this vibration helps to find serenity and return to inner calm“says the specialist.

What are the benefits of mantras?

Associated with the meditationthe mantra is a real calming tool. It brings a feeling of stability, reduces stress and improves concentration. “The chanting of mantra has a real power of regulation of the mind which will be channeled little by little. The sound vibration linked to the repetition will resonate, in a very subtle way, with different parts of the body. Depending on the state in which one is when one sings, automatic thoughts, emotions, pain, may occur as a sign of resonance with inner blockages.” emphasizes the professional. The idea is to welcome and observe without judgment what is expressed in the body in order to release emotional charges of body and mind.

What are the most powerful mantras?

The power of the mantra depends on the desired effect. In mediation and yogathe best known remains the “Om“.”It produces a fairly powerful vibration at the level of the throat which makes it possible to slow down the nervous system and calm the mind. It is very interesting to practice “Om” on a daily basis because it helps to focus attention on the present. It soothes and can also serve as a support for concentration which comes to channel the spirit and by the vibration in the body” specifies the therapist. There is also the “Guru guru wahe guru“from snatam kaur.”This mantra has the ability to calm the mind in the face of fear or worry. Soft and enveloping, it activates the sense of security and grounding“. For its part, the “Sita ram” of Mooji Mala brings a feeling of inner joy and support.

Choosing a mantra is a very personal approach. The power of chanting a mantra does not come from their meaning but rather from the vibratory effects created by repetition of each syllable spoken. “Personally, I propose it according to the vibration that the mantra gives off. In practice, the mantras all have their own vibration, so they will be chosen depending on the desired objective” advises Anaïs Bonnamy. Some mantras will activate something very soft and enveloping in the vibration of the song and the rhythm. Others will be more in the emotional release such as the discharge of anger. “We therefore use them according to the vibration they give off and what we need at the moment. depending on the psychic and bodily state in which one is”.

The mantras all have a vibration of their own

On a daily basis, it is possible to practice the mantras alone or with a professional. “You can experience mantra chanting alone through apps. There are also mantra chanting practices in yoga including kundalini” recommends Anaïs Bonnamy. It is possible to choose this or that mantra depending on what you are looking for. “The vibration will not bring the same feeling to everyone. It is therefore interesting to use them according to the state in which we are. If, for example, I feel anger, I will choose such and such a mantra. It is quite personal” recommends the clinical psychologist. In any case, the more we practice mantra chanting, the more grounded we become. “The daily practice trains attention to stay in the present and allows you to better cope with the demands and concerns that generate stress“. The occasional practice remains interesting when stressful times of life or when you feel the need to come back to yourself.

Thanks to Anaïs Bonnamy, clinical psychologist.