The Sanskrit word mantra is a combination of two words: man - mind, or to think; and tra - vehicle, tool, or instrument.
So the word mantra actually means a vehicle or tool to transport the mind. Repetition of mantra is an incredibly effective way to transport the mind to a state of deep, blissful, meditation. 
Why Mantra?
The mind has a job to do. Our minds have been used for survival since the beginning of time. The mind must judge whether or not something is safe or unsafe, healthy or possibly poisonous, good or bad. These little judgement calls in the mind happen constantly. The mind is constantly running. So what happens when an untrained mind sits down to meditate? The thinking does not stop. In fact, it can even be frustrating and distracting. Some meditation techniques call for subtle awareness on the breath - but for an untrained mind that may be too subtle to focus on. This is where mantra comes in. Giving the mind a task to complete. Something to do. The mind is a bit like a child. You wouldn’t expect a small child to happily sit still without any toys or activities. The mind is the same, it needs some stimulation or it will think in circles. Repetition of mantra gives the mind enough stimulation and activity for it to stay focused. When just using mantra to calm the mind, any mantra will do whether in Sanskrit or an affirmation statement in your native language.
And yet, that doesn’t even begin to sum up the magic of mantra.
Where Does Mantra Come From?
The Sanskrit language is the oldest recorded language. It is a language of vibration. It is sacred, highly mathematical, and every syllable vibrates in a way that is healing for your energetic and mental body. Chanting Sanskrit mantra will change your vibration so that you vibrate in harmony with the Universe. And when you’re in harmony with the Universe, that’s when the magic happens.
Most Sanskrit mantras begin with the word Om. Om, is the primordial sound of the Universe. Om actually consists of three syllables - A, U, and M. These three syllables represent the endless cycle of birth, death, rebirth. Chanting Om brings us into harmonic resonance with the Universe. Vibrating in harmony with the Universe makes you a powerful creator - able to manifest whatever you set your mind to.
Many Sanskrit mantras are simple enough to memorize. They all have their own meaning and can be used for specific things you want to manifest. Below are a few powerful mantras to chant.
Om Gum Ganapataye Namaha
This mantra invokes the energy of the elephant faced deity, Ganesha.
- Om – primordial sound of the Universe. Brings you into universal harmony.
- Gam – this is Ganesha’s bija mantra or seed sound.
- Ganapataye – represents another, more formal name of Ganesha.
- Namaha – translates as ”to honor”, “to invoke”, or ”to salute.”
Ganesha is the remover of obstacles, guardian of knowledge, and is known to grant protection, prosperity, and destroys selfishness and vanity. He is also the placer of obstacles. So sometimes chanting to Ganesha may place something in your way that in the long run will help you to find your path and fulfill your purpose. Many ceremonies begin with chanting this mantra.
Om Shreem Maha Lakshmiye Namaha
This mantra calls upon Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and abundance.
- Om – primordial sound of the Universe. Brings you into universal harmony.
- Shreem – is the sound of Lakshmi energy or abundance.
- Maha – great.
- Lakshmiye – represents another, more formal name of the goddess Lakshmi.
- Namaha – translates as ”to honor”, “to invoke”, or ”to salute.” Or “I bow to you”.
Chanting this mantra helps to bring abundance into your life. Try chanting this mantra 108 times for 40 days and see how your life changes. Many people report seeing incredible immediate shifts in their abundance and wealth. Chant with a clear intention in mind and gratitude in your heart for best results.
Om Mani Padme Hum
This mantra focuses on opening the heart with the Chinese Goddess Kuan Yin.
- Om – primordial sound of the Universe. Brings you into universal harmony.
- Mani – jewel, symbolic of enlightenment, and the intention be become filled with compassion and love.
- Padme – lotus, symbolic of wisdom and purity.
- Hum – immoveable or indivisible.
About the Author
Adriana is a yoga teacher and YogaClub Tribe Leader. She has been practicing yoga for over 10 years and teaching for five years. Budokon Yoga and Ashtanga Yoga are her favorite styles of yoga to practice. Her yoga practice has brought sweetness and authenticity into her life and her intention is to share that sweetness and help her students strive to be their own authentic selves. Adriana’s favorite YogaClub brands are Free People, teeki, and Niyama Sol.
Instagram: @yogawithadriana
