A mantra is a sacred sound vibration often used to aid in concentration during meditation or simply to raise your vibration in daily life.

It can be a simple word or a phrase that resonates with a specific intention or belief and can be extremely powerful in programming the mind for more positive energy.

The word mantra is a Sanskrit term. “Man” means mind and “tra” means instrument or vehicle. So a mantra can be defined as the "vehicle of the mind".

Traditionally a mantra is given to you by a guru or teacher, but this is not necessary. You can choose your own mantra and decide what type of mantra feels good for you.

Today, mantras have been used loosely to describe any type of word or phrase that encourages a shift in the mind and an aid for focus.

Originally, Sanskrit mantras were said to have been created by great ancient sages with the guidance of the Universe itself. Each mantra was carefully crafted with specific energetic properties and elements and handed down through generations.

You can certainly choose one of these mantras to use, or create one of your own for your practice.

Below are some of the most well known and popular mantras you may want to try.

This is the sound of the Universe, the primordial sound.

Literally translated it is “I bow to Shiva” but this mantra deeper meaning is to bow to the higher Self to bring you deeper to your Divine nature.

Truth is my name. I am truth.

This mantra is literally “peace”. Wonderful if you are wanting to nurture peace within.

This is the elephant Deity Ganesha’s mantra. Ganesha is said to remove obstacles in one’s life and assist with new ventures.

 

I am peace.

Love.

I am joy.

I open myself to Abundance.

These mantras are more “affirmations” but can work in a similar way to a mantra, giving you a positive phrase to focus upon and bring you closer to a specific intention. You can create any type of phrase or word for your mantra if you don’t feel like Sanskrit resonates with you.

 

  

Now that you have a few ideas for mantras you can certainly use any of the mantras above. (If you want more options, you can even try a quick google search for other mantras as well as their pronunciations. ) Here is a quick way on getting starting choosing the right mantra for you.

First you will need to decide your intention or a specific desire you would like more of in your life. Is it compassion? Peace? Love? Overcoming fear?

This is a great place to start so that you can clearly define what it is you want to manifest.

When it comes to choosing a mantra, always use and trust your intuition. If you don’t like the sound of something or it feels difficult for you to pronounce, then feel free to experiment and try out another mantra.

There is so much wisdom and magic in each of us, and mantras can be so personal. Allow yourself to really feel the mantra and choose it based on what feels rightful you.

Give your mantra a trial period. Allow yourself sometime to get to know your mantra. It may take days or even a few weeks to get into a groove with your mantra. 

When getting started, say your mantra out loud and truly listen and feel. Say it slowly, then try it faster. Try it out loud, then at a whisper and eventually internally.

What feels good to you? 

Whatever you may choose, pretty please just don’t go mantra hopping and changing your mantra every few days.

Meditation can take you on an amazing journey but some of the journey can be challenging and even a little tedious! You may plateau, you may become distracted. Just keep going and stick with your mantra for a long period of time to really reap the benefits.

I recommend 40 days to start setting a strong intention and a regular habit.

It is so worth it!

Once you have chosen your mantra, use it not only during meditation but feel free to use it throughout your day! You can say your mantra while walking the dogs, washing dishes or driving to work. 

The more you use it, the more it will work for you and bring you closer to your goals!