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The Use of Mantras in Yoga Therapy

Mantra is one of the most potent tools in yoga therapy.

Mantras are forms of energy that carry knowledge and consciousness deep into the  mind. The energy and vibrations of the mantra are used to free awareness that is trapped in the mind, for example, when our awareness is caught up in thinking too much. Energy and awareness that is freed can be used for higher purpose, for example, to awaken our mind and consciousness to the deeper potential within. 

In mantra yoga we use the mantra as a tool to liberate the mind. We use the mantra to penetrate energy and information deep into us in order to prod consciousness into a more awakened state.

Mantra yoga will not give any real benefits if we simply repeat a sound in the hope that some change or miracle will occur, in the same way that the endless repetition of the word “water” does not quench our thirst. Mantras have to be used with some understanding to get the desired effect.

Mantras are Tools for the Mind

Mantras change our state of consciousness. Awakening consciousness gives us knowledge and understanding, the basis of creating meaningful change both internally and externally. It is best to have a teacher to support our understanding of how to use mantras at this level.

Mantra, the basis of mantra yoga, is used in many forms of meditation to calm and strengthen the mind, and to help heal the body, especially in chronic and degenerative disease. Mantras work because they are constructed of positive luminous (sattwic) healing force and vibration. These vibrations inject information and energy deep into the cells of the body.

Mantras Heal and Cleanse Body and Mind

The energy of mantra is positive, healing life-force. It can be likened to a subtle massage that vibrates and stimulates the cells and organs of the body. The vibrations help to cleanse the tissues and restore balance.

At a deeper level, mantras are a form of subtle language, a pre-language, one that is prior to spoken language. They are built from the many sound vibrations deep in our psyche that eventually form the syllables that construct thought and language. Healing mantras for example, convey powerful information that supports our cellular intelligence. From the healing point of view, mantras help our cells remember how to switch into healing mode when necessary.

Mantras and Modern Science

Modern scientific research is proving the positive effects of mantra meditation. Scientists have shown that by combining mantra meditation with other forms of therapy we can turn on the parasympathetic nervous system. This creates the ability to deeply rest and recuperate.

Mantras have been to shown to be useful in a large number of chronic degenerative and psychosomatic diseases, such as heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, diabetes, digestive disorders, skin conditions, reproductive problems, and so on.

Mantras can be used alone, as part of healing, or combined into a larger and more powerful practice that incorporates breathing, visualization, focused intention, and other yogic practices. Combining various techniques allows us to work on several levels of body and mind simultaneously.

The best and easiest way to achieve all the benefits that mantras can give us is through the practice of Ajapa Japa meditation which combines and integrates breath, mantra and consciousness. This practice gives us physical and psychological health, but most importantly, it awakens consciousness. 

Author: Dr Swami Shankardev Saraswati

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