5 Sanskrit Mantras for Everyday Life
Chanting is one of the oldest practices of meditation. Spoken language was around long before written language and the different tones or vibrations with which early man spoke, really pulled from the true essence of our souls.
I was introduced to Sanskrit mantras about 5 years ago. At first I was confused and felt a bit out of place being a Lutheran from the Midwest. These mantras originated from Vedic beliefs so it felt strange to “worship” other Deities…but I’ve come to the understanding that these vocal vibrations can deepen your connection to the divine no matter your religious stance. All these mantras do is set our frequency to that of the universal message.
Sanskrit chants are repeated 108 times…traditionally, mala beads are used to keep track. The catholic rosary is based off of this “tradition”, if you will. You don’t need to say them 108 times each time…55 is also acceptable but sometimes they just pop into my head when I need a moment to refocus or quiet my mind. I repeat them as many times as I feel is necessary and then go on with my day! You can find many of these on you tube or produced by various artists…or you can just say them to yourself!!
Another interesting insight to mantra chanting is the mechanicals of it. The sounds and syllables of Sanskrit mantras activate meridians and other energy channels which promotes healing throughout your body. By moving the soft aspects of your mouth & throat, you are encouraging your circulatory and lymphatic systems to work more effectively!
Without further ado, here are some of my favorite mantras:
1. Gayatri Mantra
“Om Buhr Bhuvah Swah
Tat-savitur Vareñyam
Bhargo Devasya Dhīmahi
Dhiyo Yonah Prachodayāt”
GENERAL MEANING: We meditate on that most adored Supreme Lord, the creator, whose divine light illumines physical, mental and spiritual realms. May this divine light illumine our intellect.
Like clockwork, as soon as I open my eyes this mantra starts playing in my mind. It’s lengthy but has a very beautiful musical tone to it. I encourage everyone to start their day with gratitude and watch the miracles unfold.
2. Peace
“Om Shanti Om”
This is a relatively easy one to remember and I often find myself using this when I am driving or in other stressful situations. It calms and centers my attention and emotions fairly quickly!
3. Removing of Obstacles/Root Chakra
“Om Gum Ganapataye Namaha”
I like this mantra to ground me. Once you get into the flow, it becomes rather addictive to chant. This is another daily one for me. Whenever I feel “triggered”, challenged, or stuck this mantra eases me back into the flow of life.
4. Healing
“Om Shree Dhanvantre Namaha”
Occasionally this comes to mind while working with my clients. But personally I use it as a “check-in” with myself. It brings any areas of discomfort to my awareness & how to address the issues causing me pain, illness, or disease.
5. Joy & Fulfillment
“Om Radha Krishnaya Namaha”
I generally feel this one in my solar plexus and heart chakras…which makes sense. If you find yourself guarded or unhappy, try chanting this while moving. It not only can unblock the mental components of your distress but also the physical…Get out there and dance, baby!