Start Meditation with Mantras – Mantra Meditations

Getting Started

Start by picking some aspect of your life you wish to improve or some vexing problem you would like to solve or dissolve. Then pick a mantra which seems, to you, to apply. Offer a prayer to God, in whatever way you relate to God. Ask for God’s blessing in accomplishing your objective in doing this spiritual discipline.

Once you have decided to undertake the discipline and offered your prayers, then pick a place where you will say your mantra for a certain number of times each day. If possible, obtain a rosary of some kind and do your mantras in some multiple of 108. If getting a rosary is not possible, then decide on a certain amount of time you will spend each day saying your mantra. It can be five minutes, ten minutes, twenty minutes or even an hour. For your first experience, any time up to twenty minutes is advisable.

The reason for taking things easy for the first 40 day commitment is due to the cumulative action of the mantra. For the first few days, all will probably go smoothly. Then as you progress, you may find that things start to get in the way of your doing the discipline: You oversleep; there is some minor emergency; you get a cold, whatever. This means that you are beginning to effect the inner ‘something’ for which you undertook the mantra. You are beginning to encounter inner resistance. That inner resistance manifests as outer obstacles to your discipline. It has almost become a joke in many spiritual circles in which the practice of mantra is common, that something of a very surprising nature happened on day 33 or 35 of a 40 day sadhana. It has happened to me and many others with whom I have spoken on innumerable occasions over the last 22 years.

Develop a sense of humor about it, and be thankful. There is no better indication that your efforts are working than to have small upheavals in your life while you are in the midst of a 40 day mantra discipline. Ask anyone who has undertaken one and they will have some interesting stories for you.

Ganesha: Om Gum Ganapatayei Namaha

Rough Translation: ‘Om and salutations to the remover of obstacles for which Gum is the seed.’

The story of Ganesha is found in the chapter devoted to this principle. But for your immediate need, you need only know that for seen or unseen obstacles which seem to be standing in the way of your progress or achievement, either specifically or generally, this mantra has proved invaluable. It has been used it with great success not only in India, but here in the West dozens of people have related to me their success in turning things around in their life by using this mantra.

Lakshmi: Om Shrim Mahalakshmiyei Swaha

Rough Translation: ‘Om and salutations to that feminine energy which bestows all manner of wealth, and for which Shrim is the seed’

This mantra has not only been used for the purpose of attracting prosperity, but also for drawing in proper friends, clearing up family misunderstandings and quarrels, and smoothing some health problems. As we all know, there are many different kinds of wealth. As you use this mantra, focus on the kind of wealth you wish to manifest in your life.

Durga: Om Dum Durgayei Namaha

Rough Translation: ‘Om and Salutations to that feminine energy which protects from all manner of negative influences, and for which Dum is the seed.’

Durga is the Divine Protectress. Typically shown riding a lion or a tiger, Durga has a hundred arms, each with a different weapon of destruction. Yet her face is exquisitely beautiful to behold. The interpretation is that to the pious and the sincere seeker after truth, her sight can produce ecstacy and a variety of beautiful forms. But the negative, harmful or demonic, her countenance is as terrible as Kali, except she shows more weapons of destruction than Kali (who is described later).

Saraswati: Om Eim Saraswatyei Swaha

Rough Translation: ‘Om and salutations to that feminine energy which informs all artistic and scholastic endeavor, and for which Eim (pronounced I’m) is the seed.’

Saraswati holds a musical instrument, the vina, in one hand and a rosary in another hand. She spans the world of mundane knowledge and spiritual understanding. Those pursuing any artistic or educational endeavor whatsoever will gain greatly from the practice of this mantra.

Shiva: Om Namah Shivaya

This mantra has no approximate translation. The sounds related directly to the principles which govern each of the first six chakras on the spine…Earth, water, fire, air, ether. Notice that this does not refer to the chakras themselves which have a different set of seed sounds, but rather the principles which govern those chakras in their place. A very rough, non-literal translation could be something like, ‘Om and salutations to that which I am capable of becoming.’ This mantra will start one out on the path of subtle development of spiritual attainments. It is the beginning on the path of Siddha Yoga, or the Yoga of Perfection of the Divine Vehicle.

Rama: Om Sri Rama Jaya Rama, Jaya, Jaya Rama

Rough Translation: ‘Om and Victory to Rama (the self within), victory, victory to Rama.’

Rama was an Avatar who came several thousand years ago. His sole purpose was to show how a person should live a Divine Life while living in a human body. A short story about the esoteric meaning of his life is found in the chapter devoted to him. You will recall from the previous chapter that Mahatma Gandhi practiced this mantra for over 60 years. This mantra will ‘take one across’ the ocean of rebirth. In a more immediate way, it is most powerful in reducing negative karmic effects no matter in which life they might have occurred. I have also had a powerful spiritual healing experience (for another person), while using this mantra intensely.

The Planet Saturn: Om Sri Shanaishwaraya Swaha

Rough translation: ‘Om and salutations to the presiding spirit in the planet Saturn.’

Saturn is the planet of lessons. It is closely related to the karma we may encounter in a given lifetime. It also stands as a gatekeeper to some of the higher vibrations to which we aspire though spiritual development. By offering salutations outwardly, one clears certain internal obstructing energy patterns. But Saturn has received an overly negative reputation from some astrologers. There have been circumstances where very positive things manifested in people’s lives unexpectedly, apparently as a direct result of working with this mantra.

Internally, Saturn energy is predominant in the spleen, knees and skeletal system. However, as Saturn moves through the various astrological signs, it ‘triggers’ karma we may have stored under astrological configurations found in that sign. Therefore, the use of the Saturn mantra can mitigate and even clear certain categories of karma which appear in our lives. This mantra has been used with great success personally. And I have received reports of its efficacy from many other people.

Subramanya: Om Sharavana-bhavaya Namaha

Rough translation, ‘Om and salutations to the son of Shiva, who brings auspiciousness and who is chief of the celestial army.’

The positive effects of this mantra may not be so clearly seen or described as some of the others: a seeming increase in good fortune or luck; the ability to make the best of a set of circumstances which may occur; an increase in positive mental or emotional disposition; an easier route to becoming physically fit. Yet these few phrases do not begin to exhaust the benefits of using this mantra. It seems to brighten or optimize nearly everything in life.

Rama (Healing Mantra):
Om Apadamapa Hataram Dataram Sarva Sampadam
Loka Bhi Ramam Sri Rama Bhuyo Bhuyo Namamyaham

This is a long mantra to put in a chapter for those just starting off, but is placed here because it is the most powerful healing mantra I have ever encountered. The very rough translation is, ‘Om, Oh most compassionate Rama please send your healing energy right here to the earth, to the earth (twice for emphasis.)’

I have seen this mantra completely cure one person from a schizophrenic break who was in a locked ward. The psychiatrist said he would never lead a life on the outside again. In the middle of a 40 day sadhana done in his behalf, he was living in a ‘halfway house’ for those on the road to recovery. After 40 days of a spiritual discipline done on his behalf, he was on his own. He has since graduated from Art School which he attended on scholarship, and is working as an artist.

Another individual who was on medication, took off spurning his pills and disappeared for a time. After a 40 day sadhana done on his behalf, he had stabilized his life and was back on his medication without complaint.

A woman I know was in constant pain for four years. She undertook this discipline and after just a few weeks was in less pain than at any time she could remember over the past several years. She is still doing the mantra an expects to be pain free relatively soon.

Although the mantra is long, it is simple to say phonetically. If you can, say it 108 times in a sitting. If you are just starting out, this may initially take up to one hour. After you are comfortable with the mantra, it will only take you 30 minutes.
Bodhisattwa Avalokiteshwara (Called Chenresig in Tibetan Buddhism):

Om Mani Padme Hum

Rough Translation: ‘Om, salutations to The Jewel of Consciousness (the mind) which has reached the heart’s lotus.’

This mantra is practiced more than any other in the world. It is pre-eminent in producing a state of dynamic compassion in the sayer. Dynamic means that this compassion contains as part of it the ability to powerfully manifest in both subtle and obvious ways. One of the simple yet profound teachings which accompanies this mantra is the concept that when the mind and heart become united, anything is possible. The implications of this simple thought are staggering. If you want to change the world for the better, this mantra should be in your spiritual toolbox.

What Types of Meditation Techniques are Best for Me?

What exactly is meditation?

You ask people and they will very likely refer you to the internet to “Google” it. On the internet, you’ll find thousands of web pages defining the exercise of meditating and trying to explain it in their own terms. Unfortunately, a lot of these sites explain meditating in a very complicated and esoteric fashion…extremely difficult to understand and just plain boring.

So far, the site that most clearly defines meditation is Wikipedia.  One of the best ways to define this exercise is probably an action or exercise that increases your awareness.

In specific, meditative techniques allow you to achieve an awareness of self. An extremely useful tool for this is following a guided meditation video.  If you click on the link on the previous sentence, you’ll see a list of Free Guided Meditations available to you.  It does this because meditation techniques focus the mind to pass the clutter of thoughts and jumbled thinking patterns.  The idea is to be able to think clearer and become more relaxed.  Hence, all these techniques allow us to accomplish this.

The stresses of life can have a dramatic effect on us.  As we attempt to deal with all the various problems that come our way, we are mentally worn down.  Much in the same way our bodies need proper exercise to remain healthy, so do our minds need proper stimulation to stay efficient.  By becoming better attuned with our consciousness, we achieve this.  In fact, practicing meditation techniques is really the only way to permanently accomplish this endeavor.  If you meditate properly, you free your mind of burdensome and chaotic thought patterns.  Who doesn’t want to be less stressed and more focused?

Ok, so basically these techniques will help you become more relaxed, think clearer, concentrate better and more.  But these things in and of themselves are not the act of meditating.  Concentrating on something is not meditation.  Finding one self in a relaxing position or performing certain poses is not it either.  There are a number of meditation techniques that will help a person achieve plenty of benefits in their life.

Popular Meditation Techniques

1. Zen – One of the most popular and well known meditation techniques is called Zen Meditation.  This meditation technique was developed by Zen monks.  Zen is about achieving a state of absolute stillness and emptiness.   While Zen meditative techniques are regarded as some of the easiest and most effective to perform, they take time and effort to master.  This technique is centered on sitting in the lotus position to achieve a stillness of thought.

2. Mantra – Another well known meditation technique is Mantra.  Mantra is an exercise that many people tend to associate with meditating in their minds.  Mantra techniques involve chanting or ‘mantra repetition.’  This is a meditation technique that achieves a state of awareness through the use of sound. In fact, one of the most popular techniques in the United States – transcendental meditation (TM)- is an example of a mantra meditation.

3. Vipassana – A third well known technique is Vipassana.  Vipassana is a Buddhist technique that focuses on breathing.  If we consider the fact that breathing is an every moment occurrence and a necessity for living, then we can begin to see how concentrating on this aspect of life can have a significance.  Vipassana is a meditation technique that essentially teaches one to be aware of their breathing, from which (when done properly) there is a state of awareness that is attained.

Other Techniques

There are many other techniques that are available.  These three just happen to be the most well known and practiced in the west.  What you will notice is that all three have the same goal in mind – which is to attain a higher state of awareness.  Remember, one of the most common purposes of meditating is to become better aware of the self, which in turn, produces a healthier mind.  It’s interesting that regardless of the differences between meditation techniques, the goal remains the same.

All of the differences in the techniques mentioned in this article are actually examples of how each of them lead to the same goal- that of achieving awareness. It’s like the saying goes “all roads lead to Rome.”

In this case, all these different techniques lead to enlightenment and awareness in addition to many other kinds of mental, psychological, social, and physical benefits.

Whether the meditation technique you use focuses on sitting, walking, laying down, breathing, repeating a mantra, or chanting, it will lead to benefits in your daily life and to benefits in the lives of those around you.

Meditation – Thoughtless State of Awareness

The Indian scriptures describe the following four states of human awareness:

• Jagruti – the waking state of consciousness
• Swapna – the dreaming state of consciouslness
• Sushupti – the state of deep sleep in which the mind, the ego and superego are still
• Turya - the state of thoughtless awareness beyond the mind

The first three states of awareness are commonly experienced in our daily lives. The fourth state in which the constant rising and falling of thoughts in the mind comes to an end. At first a gap – vilamba – begins to appear between the thoughts. As this gap grows the thoughts diminish and, with regular practice of meditation, the mind enters easily into thoughtless awareness. The attention becomes still like a lake without any ripples on it and a deep inner peace begins to dawn upon our awareness.

In the state of thoughtless awareness we think neither of the past nor of the future. We are entirely in the present moment, in the state of being and do not waste the precious moments of life thinking about times that are finished forever or yet to come. We start enjoying our Self, our Spirit, our own inner beauty and the beauty of creation. We start to enjoy being.

In this state, we start to feel the vibrations of our chakras and our surroundings (and the effect of our behavior and lifestyle) on our fingertips. As a result we spontaneously and naturally change ourselves and our environment so that we maximize the joy, both for ourselves and for those around us. Shri Mataji has described this as “innate religion”.

Meditation Classes Los Angeles Meditation Classes at Ananda LA

How to Meditate
by Jyotish Novak

Meditation Classes
How to Meditate

4 Week Series

In just a few weeks, you can learn how to meditate.

“ I very much enjoyed the class. Thank you for making such a spiritual meditation so easily available to people newly interested as well as absolutely enjoyable.”
—Laura

For: Beginners, meditators never having had live instruction, and those wanting a review
Time: 7:30-9:30pm, Tuesdays.
On the first evening come early to register (7:15pm) or pre-register online for discount.
Location: Location to be announced
Instructor: Sean

How to Meditate
by Jyotish Novak

Saturday How to Meditate Workshop

In just one day, you can learn how to meditate:

For: Beginners, meditators never having had live instruction, and those wanting a review

Time: 10am – 1pm, Saturdays.
Come early to register (9:45am) or pre-register online for discount.

Location: Heaven on Earth Holistic Center
7122 Beverly Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90036.

Note: One block West of La Brea, second floor, above Starbuck’s and Susina Bakery. Entrance is on Detroit.

Parking: Plenty of free parking. There is a free, two-story parking garage diagonally behind the building. Map, directions, and free parking garage.

Instructor: Sean Meshorer

Cost: $60;
For a limited time, you can pre-register on-line for the Learn to Meditate Workshop for only $50.00.

Unable to take scheduled classes? Private meditation classes are available.

Testimonials

“Great class last night. Had another fantastic meditation this morning. I wanted to commend your ability to answer questions. Fantastic stuff. I really enjoy it very much.”
—Matthew Payne, Los Angeles, CA

“ Krishna Das’ s meditation class was outstanding! I loved that he taught from such depth of experience. Besides learning some powerful techniques, it was great to share in discussion and group meditation with both people brand new to meditation, as well as people with long term meditative practices. ”
—Lisa

“ I have searched for a method of meditation for a long time and am happy to say that I finally found one. The Learn to Meditate class not only taught me a proven and practical technique for how to meditate regularly, but it also explained, in a most clear and concise way, why it works so effectively. This is due to the unparalleled wisdom of Paramhansa Yogananda, and to Ananda LA’s wonderful teacher, Krishnadas, who imparted these practices in a most insightful, intellectual, and inspiring way. ”
—Heidi

“I wanted to just thank you for your class last night. My meditation this morning was much simpler and much deeper and I am very excited to continue to learn from you.”
—Matt

“ I wanted to thank you for teaching the meditation class and sharing your knowledge and experience. I truly enjoyed the classes and it all has been very helpful in my search for inner peace and happiness. I will continue my daily morning meditations and my spiritual growth. Thanks again. ”
—Susanne

Meditation Classes – Level II

Deepening Your Meditation:
Energy & Magnetism

On the first evening come early to register (7:15pm) or pre-register online for discount.
Location: Location to be announced
Instructor: Sean