11 Ancient Mantras That Will Transform Your Life

Ancient mantrasⁱ  In Sanskrit, a mantra is a sacred utterance, a phrase, a syllable, a numinous sound, or set of phonemes. for transformation have grown extremely popular in recent  years, and for good reason. They have a deep and spiritual quality to them. These mantras may appear to be nothing more than words and sounds, but there is no doubt that they play an important function in regenerating the mind and soul. Keep reading to learn some core ancient mantras for meditation and how they benefit you. Keep scrolling!

Trivia

The Sanskrit word ‘mantra’ is derived from the sound “man or “manas,” which means “to think or perceive.”

Meaning Of Mantra

According to Deepak Chopra, the New Age Wellness Guru, the word ‘mantra’ consists of two parts. The first part, ‘man’ means mind in Sanskrit, whereas the second part ‘tra’ means instrument. Therefore, he interprets mantra as ‘the instrument of mind’. These are powerful words, sounds, or vibrations that can be used for meditation.

Mantras have been used for centuries across various cultures and spiritual traditions for meditation, healing, and transformation. In Hinduism, mantras are a central component of spiritual practice. Ancient Hindu scriptures, like the Vedas, contain numerous mantras that are chanted for various purposes, such as invoking deities, seeking blessings, or achieving enlightenment. In Buddhism, mantras are often used to focus the mind and attain enlightenment. In modern times, mantras have transcended religious boundaries and are widely used in psychological and wellness practices. Affirmations, considered as mantras by many, aid cognitive behavioral therapy and personal development to foster positive thinking and self-empowerment (1).

Effect On Meditation

Meditation is referred to as a practice to train the mind or induce a mode of consciousness. It promotes relaxation of mind and body, develops compassion, patience, love, concentration and generosity. Meditation many times involves repeating a mantra with closed eyes. You can choose to recite any ancient mantras for transformation during meditation based on your preference and need.

Meditation has a calming effect on an individual and imparts peace and tranquilityⁱ  The calm condition in which there are no concerns or any distractions from delight. the tranquil state of mind. (2). Transcendentalⁱ  An experience that is spiritual. Something that cannot be captured completely by the human brain. meditation is the purest form of meditation that creates a powerful state of awareness and mindfulness by thought process or mind control. One can embark on a journey of self-improvement, enlightenment, spirituality, wisdom, and personal growth through this practice. Its key aspect is the mantra given by the teacher to his student. Many practitioners state that reciting mantras helps them connect more deeply with their inner selves, which promotes emotional healing and resilience.

Mechanism Of Mantras

Mantras provide the mind something to focus on. Mantras resonate and create a sensation with the body. The subtle vibrations in turn resonate a positive energy within self and the surrounding. Repetitive chanting of mantras plays a major role in declutteringⁱ  To clear up any mess or hoard of something. It can refer to the physical decluttering of a place or mental decluttering. the mind. Meditation with mantras is a powerful way to penetrate the silence of mind and create harmony (3). The mental vibrations allow the mind to experience deep awareness and lead to the field of pure consciousness.

According to a recent survey conducted on 464 participants aged between 18 to 80 years across 33 countries (including US, UK, India, Germany, New Zealand, and Austria) who chanted mantras regularly, about 60% of the participants experienced mystical states. These people also experienced a higher state of religiosity, altruism, and absorption.

Mantras help us disconnect from the thoughts and worries in our mind and slip them into the gaps between these thoughts. Chanting of spiritual mantras holds the key to transcendence and transforming an individual.

Importance Of Mantras In Meditation

Using mantras during meditation brings us back into the present moment, silences mental chaos, reduces anxiety and stress, and creates clarity of thoughts. Research suggests that mantra meditation may also help with hypertension and improve immunity (3).

Choose a mantra that is easy to remember, fits your belief system, and makes you feel at peace. If you cannot choose one, recite a few different mantras and notice how each makes you feel. A good mantra should evoke a sense of grounding, inspiration, or relaxation.

Mantras are sacred prayers that can be chanted for inner peace and calmness all through life. They are healers, the medicine for our soul!

Mantras are easy to incorporate into daily life and can be quite beneficial. Consider dedicating a short period each day to mantra meditation. This practice not only helps you manage stress and improve mental clarity but also deepens your spiritual journey, inspiring you to continue on the path of personal growth and well-being.

Each mantra induces some specific vibrations in the mind. So, it is not like all mantras work equally well. Different mantras are used for the purpose of specific objectives.

Ancient Mantras From Around The World

If you are looking for ancient mantras for transformation to fit in with your meditation sessions, you can try the following:

1. Gayatri Mantra: Om bhur bhuvah svah tat savitur varenyam bhargo devasya dhimahi dhiyo yo nah pracodayat. The Gayatri Mantra, often referred to as the “mother of all mantras,” is a way to communicate with divine awareness and a prayer for enlightenment. It is well regarded for its ability to improve mental clarity and wisdom.
2. Shiva Mantra: Om namah shivaya.
3. Ganesh Mantra: Om gam ganapataye namaha.
4. Shanti Mantra: Om saha naavavatu saha nau bhunaktu saha veeryam karavaavahai tejasvi aavadheetamastu maa vidvishaavahai om.
5. Mantra for Happiness: Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu.
6. Om or Aum: This mantra represents the most elemental sound of universal consciousness. This mantra has been used by people for thousands of years for expansion of their divine awareness.
7. Om Mani Padme Hum: This is a Tibetan Buddhist mantra. It is said that all the teachings of Buddha are incorporated in this mantra.
8. Namo Amitabha: This mantra is an homage to the Buddha of boundless light.
9. I Am that I Am: This mantra has its place in the Hebrewⁱ  A member of a prehistoric people who, according to biblical tradition, were descended from the patriarch Jacob, Abraham's grandson. Bible. This most famous line in the Torah was God’s answer to Moses, when asked what His name was.
10. Ham Sah: This short mantra originates from the ancient Kriya Yoga that involves a simple, but potent breathing technique.
11. I love you, I’m sorry, Please forgive me, Thank you: This is a Ho’oponopono, ancient Hawaiian mantra.
12. Om Vasudhare Svaha: This mantra is chanted in remembrance of Vasundhara Devi who is the celebrated goddess of abundance and prosperity. The meaning of Om Vasudhare Svaha is, “Oh goddess of earth, I pray to you. Bless me with abundance”.
13. Tayata Om Bekanze: Tayata Om, Bekandze Bekandze, Maha Bekandze, Radza Samudgate Soha. This chant is about seeking relief from pain, suffering, and darkness.
14. Om So Hum: It is made of three words. “Om” is the source of the universe, the essence of consciousness. “So” means “that” and “hum” means “I am”. The om so hum mantra translates to, “I am that”.

Trivia

Gayatri Mantra is also called Savitri Mantra as it is dedicated to Savitr or Gayatri, the mother of the Vedas (also known as Vedmata).

Once you have chosen an ancient mantra for transformation, you need to learn to recite it correctly. Scroll down to learn about some of the best practices for effective recitation.

Best Practices For Reciting Mantras

Here is how you can recite your chosen mantra correctly:

• Sit comfortably with your spine straight and shoulders relaxed. Focus on your breathing to enhance your concentration.
• Chant the mantra in a steady, rhythmic manner. You can repeat it aloud, in a whisper, or silently in your mind. Also, ensure proper pronunciation.
• As you recite the mantra, visualize its meaning or the transformation you seek.

While this is the ideal way to recite ancient mantras for transformation, you can also recite them mentally during daily activities, such as walking, cooking, or commuting, to maintain mindfulness. You can also use prayer beads to keep track of repetitions, traditionally 108 times, to deepen focus and discipline.

It is also important to establish a regular practice to maximize the benefits of ancient mantras for transformation. Learn how you can do so in the section below.

Incorporating Mantras Into Your Daily Life

Here are some simple tips you can follow to incorporate mantras into your daily routine:

• Practice mantra recitation in the morning to set a positive tone for the day.
• Create a dedicated mantra practice space with calming elements like candles, incense, or soft lighting to deepen your connection to the practice.
• Use mantras during transitions, such as commuting, before meetings, or while doing daily chores like cooking.
• Silently recite your mantra whenever you face stress or negativity to calm your mind.
• End your day with mantra meditation to release the day’s tensions and promote restful sleep.
• Write your mantra on sticky notes and place them in visible areas like your mirror or desk as gentle reminders.

Do you practice ancient mantras for meditation? Please share your experiences and let us know how this has influenced your life.

Infographic: 5 Powerful Mantras And Their Benefits

Mantras are more than words; they are a doorway to inner peace, self-discovery, and transformation. The repetition of mantras doesn’t just calm the mind but connects a person’s self with a greater purpose. The infographic below lists seven life-changing benefits of mantra chanting and explores five sacred phrases to uplift your spirit and enrich your daily life. Scroll down to check it out.

Illustration: StyleCraze Design Team

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most powerful mantra?

“Om Namah Shivaya” is believed to be one of the most powerful mantras in Hinduism. It is dedicated to Lord Shiva.

Which mantra is powerful for the mind?

Gayatri Mantra is known to be powerful for the mind. It is over 10,000 years old, and chanting this mantra may promote mental healing (4).

Which mantra should we chant daily?

You may chant “Om” daily. It may deactivate the limbic system to reduce anxiety and induce calm. Studies found its effects similar to those of vagus nerve stimulation treatment (5). Understanding the meaning of the ‘Om’ symbol can help you connect with your inner soul and enhance your practice. However, more studies are required to prove the healing effect of chanting Om.

Transform your life in just 30 minutes with the most powerful mantras. Click on the video below to experience the power of ancient mantras and unlock your potential!

Was this article helpful?

Reviewer Author Editor Fact Checker

Pratibha AgarwalRYT-500

     

Pratibha Agarwal is the Founder and Director of Anahata Yoga Zone, Secunderabad, India. She has 11 years of experience in this field and also offers online live yoga sessions in varied forms and helps employees in de-stressing, team building, and professional growth.

Read full bio of Pratibha Agarwal

Shirin MehdiHealth & Wellness Writer

 

Shirin is a health and wellness writer with three years of experience and specializes in writing articles on yoga and has extensive knowledge about the postures of the asanas. Prior to joining Stylecraze, she interned with an advertising firm as a copywriter and as an editorial intern for a luxury fashion magazine.

Read full bio of Shirin Mehdi

Arshiya SyedaCo-Editor-in-Chief

Arshiya Syeda is the Co-Editor-in-Chief of StyleCraze with 8 years of experience. Prior to that, she was a content writer who combined her writing and research skills to write over 200 high-performing articles on hairstyles, hair care, and skin care.

Read full bio of Arshiya Syeda

Moksha GandhiHealth & Wellness Writer

Moksha is a health and wellness writer and a certified diet and nutrition coach. Her passion for science and writing has helped her excel in crafting evidence-based articles. Her previous experience in writing science-based research papers ensures that her articles are grounded in research and provide practical tips that are reader-focused.

Read full bio of Moksha Gandhi