What is a mantra?

Curious to understand what is a mantra and what are the benefits of mantra chanting? There is a lot of literature available on the subject. For those who enjoy reading books related to spirituality, Justin O Brien's "Walking with a Himalayan Master - Swami Rama' is a masterful autobiography of an American yogi and scholar, trained by none other than Swami Rama.

[READ: Amazing Tale of Pedda Bottu & Dark night of the soul]

[Image by Samuel Silitonga on Pexels.com]

Meaning of Mantra

What is a Mantra? In Justin O'Brien's book, there is an entire Chapter that is devoted to explaining mantra chanting and its benefits. In his words, a mantra is that 'which removes the disturbances of the mind'.

The author links it with the Biblical words, "In the beginning was the Word." He also emphasizes that genuine mantras are NEVER made up. They were revealed to sages, who noted their effects on their body and mind. Based on their findings, the sages taught their disciples.

What does a Mantra do?

Affects the energy levels composing one's nature.
Manifests qualities specified by the particular vibrations in the mantra
Chanting mantras has many benefits on the mind, in particular, and in lifting the vibrations and energy of the individual.

For those of you who want to chant mantras, you can chant the Gayatri mantra daily and also study its benefits.

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