How Mantras Helped Quiet my Anxious Mind
“I can’t meditate.” I’ve heard that so many times! Heck, there was a time when I said and thought that too. Sitting in silence with a completely empty mind might sound impossible. But meditation is so much more! There is a wide range of tools to assist you on your journey inwards. Let’s explore how you can use mantras and affirmations to help quiet your nervous mind.
HOW DO YOU USE A MANTRA OR AFFIRMATION?
Finding an object of concentration is an essential part of meditation. You can focus on your breath – there are many books and articles about breathing techniques. But a mantra is a powerful way to focus your mind and align with a specific intention. The words give you something to come back to when your mind wanders. And FYI, it is okay if your mind wanders, just gently bring yourself back to your intention.You can chant your mantra out loud, if that speaks to you (pun intended haha), or work with it silently. They are both very different experiences, and I encourage you to try each way. I will spend time chanting a mantra out loud, but also let it be present in my mind throughout my day. You won’t usually see me in the grocery store chanting, but I’m probably thinking of a mantra.I lean on my mantras the most when I’m having a hard time. Maybe it’s one of those days where one thing after another is going wrong – you know what I mean. When I feel like I’m about to hit my breaking point, I take a deep breath, and try to refocus my mind. Having a word or phrase to turn to is way more helpful than letting my “anxiety brain” take the wheel.
HOW DO YOU PICK A MANTRA?
Mantras can be in any language and for any purpose. Just find something that speaks to you! Here are some that I’ll use – it changes depending on what I need.
The 5 Reiki Precepts (English translations, but also the original Japanese)
Lokah Samastah Sukino Bhavantu – May all beings be happy and free and may my actions contribute in some way
I am full of love and light
Om anandam nama – “May I be blissfully unattached from the outcome”
Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha – invokes the energy of Lord Ganesha, remover of obstacles
I am here. It is now. I am at peace.
NEED HELP WITH MANTRAS?
I would LOVE to help you fill your meditation toolkit with mantras and affirmations that speak to you. If you’d like some ideas tailored just for you, schedule a session or email me.