My favourite straightforward definition of mantra is from the Oxford Dictionary:
(originally in Hinduism and Buddhism) a word or sound repeated to aid concentration in meditation.
The Chopra Institute explains the etymology (or origin) of the word mantra:
“man,” which means mind, and “tra,” which means transport or vehicle. In other words, a mantra is an instrument of the mind—a powerful sound or vibration that you can use to enter a deep state of meditation.
Mantra meditation is repeating either out loud or silently to yourself a word, phrase or syllable as a form of meditation. What mantra you choose and why you choose to focus on it depends on what you hope to gain from the meditation. Some people will choose something with a spiritual focus, others might choose an emotion – in most cases the mantra holds positive or affirming value for you.
What’s interesting is that research backs the effectiveness of mantra meditation (and other forms of mind body connection practices) for triggering the relaxation response, quieting the mind and helping to manage stress.
The research from the Benson-Henry Institute has also shown that the positive effects occur no matter what you repeat and even whether you feel it was effective (see Chapter 10 of Yoga for Healthy Aging by Bell and Zolotow).
If you’re not sure or need a little inspiration check out the Mantras in Love album from Beautiful Chorus, an all women’s a capella group. I discovered them on Spotify and you’ve heard this song in my weekly classes.
For more information about the history (over thousands of years) and benefits of mantras, check Susanna Barkataki’s article on “Peace” is not a Mantra: A Deeper History of Mantras.
