“Mantra” is a Sanskrit word meaning “a tool for the mind.” Mantras can be very powerful if you are looking to deepen your meditation practice. The idea of a mantra is to connect you with a higher consciousness, deepening and broadening your mind and effects of meditation. However, understanding how powerful mantras can be is very important.
The basis of Ayurveda was imparted from ancient wisdom to enlightened Rishis. Their knowledge was passed to each soul as “sutras” or small phrases. Only an inquiring mind would be able to receive the wisdom. “The words of the sutras bring hidden knowledge to consciousness.” These small phrases piece together information and allow the mind to process and digest what we recognize in life.
Our minds perceive many things in our day-to-day life. It is the center for thinking and judging making it powerful in our perception of the world around us. Finding understanding and awareness is key in maintaining the balance of the mind. This is where mantras can become useful tools.
A basic and profound mantra that can be practiced is “So-ham” or “so-hum” meaning “I am pure consciousness and awareness” connecting you to the infinite universe. This mantra is practiced with the breath, inhaling with “So” and exhaling with “ham” and can be spoken out loud or internally. It allows the mind to quiet and align with the vibrational energy of the sounds and frequencies, which is the intention of a mantra. As words and phrases hold a lot of meaning, so do mantras and sutras. Sanskrit words were spoken based on the sounds and vibrations they hold. Mantras can be very powerful tools in finding enlightenment for the mind but should be taken seriously. You are looking to align every cell of your body to this mantra, you are looking to become this mantra.
“So’ham” can be a useful tool through the day to reconnect to your body as well as remind you of the peace and love that is always protecting you.
References:
Textbook of Ayurveda, Vasant Lad, M.A.Sc.
4.2.2021