Mantra meditation was popularised in modern times by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, the founder of Transcendental Meditation movement, but is an ancient technique, sometimes referred to as Vedic Meditation, or simply mantra meditation.
A mantra is simply a word, often with a specific meaning relating it to some form of power such a deity. Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, states that “we can take any word. Even the word ‘Mike’ can be taken … thus we find that any sound can serve our purpose of training the mind to become sharp.”
He goes on to say: “For our practice, we select only the suitable mantras of personal Gods. Such mantras fetch to us the grace of personal gods and make us happier in every walk of life.”
Other traditions use words such as the names of Runes, Hebrew letters, the names of Gods, Angels, or words of power and protection.
The basic technique is given below. Find a suitable location to sit and practice, ensuring you will not be disturbed for the duration of the meditation. Ideally you should meditate for 15-20 minutes at a time.
- Think the mantra once, at the beginning of meditation.
- Let it go, do not concentrate on the mantra.
- The mantra is not repeated over and over.
- The mantra is simply ‘heard’.
- Keep the mantra as a faint idea only.
- Allow the mantra to change in any way it wants.
- If your mind wanders, gently bring it back to ‘hearing’ the mantra.