One of the most common meditation techniques involves the use of a mantra. For many people, this is the easiest form of meditation. A mantra is sound or word that is repeated during meditation. If you are taking a meditation class, the mantra will often be supplied.
However, if you are practicing meditation at home, you will select your own mantra. One commonly used mantra is the Om sound, which is often associated with meditation. In ancient India, it was believed that the from the Om sound, the universe came in to existence. The Om is the sound of God.
Most mantras are in the Sanskrit language because the practice of meditation originated in India. The sounds of the mantra developed thousands of years ago because these words or phrases have the ability to create powerful vibrations that help the person enter the meditative state easily.
As you repeat the mantra, the sound vibrations bring awareness and increase consciousness. Rather than lulling you into a state of semi sleep, the mantra awakens your awareness of the inner being and connection with all of existence, including God.
Meditation is a spiritual exercise. By repeating the sound in meditation, the person is able to experience God. The repetition of the mantra awakens the awareness of and connection to God in the minds of the practitioner.
Mantras used in meditation often refer to, or invoke, a specific god in the Hindu religion. Since the concept of God is universal, you don’t have to be Hindu to use one of these mantras. The mantra can mean something different to everyone.
The use of a mantra is particularly helpful for people who find it difficult to focus during meditation. When the mind begins to wander, it is easier to bring it back through the repetition of the mantra.
This type of meditation doesn’t require a lot of time and can easily fit into your day. Most people find ten minutes is enough. If you can only find five minutes, that’s OK too. A few minutes in meditation is a great way to start the day.