What is mantra?

A mantra is composed of two Sanskrit words: Man and Tra. Man means mind, while Tra refers to the force or energy of life. The word mantra is therefore a powerful combination that symbolizes an energy capable of strengthening the mind and connecting us to life itself.

A mantra is a sound that, through the repetition of its rhythm, vibration, tone, or meaning, can transform, elevate, or influence our state of consciousness. A mantra can be a single syllable, a single word, or an entire phrase.

The Aum symbol (ॐ) represents the sound of the universe and the union of body, mind, and spirit.

A mantra can be repeated many times to create calm, focus, and a deeper connection to oneself—and perhaps even to something greater. Through the repetition of its rhythm, sound, and meaning, our consciousness is affected—we become more peaceful, and our thoughts grow clearer.

“Repetition of any mantra purifies the mind, removes distraction, and helps concentration.”— Swami Sivananda

Mantras can be chanted alone or in a group. Practicing together with others can be an especially powerful experience.

It’s not about understanding the words on a rational level, but about feeling their vibration within the body and mind as you repeat them.

Mantras in Relation to the Eight Limbs of Yoga

According to the eight limbs of yoga, as described by Patanjali in the Yoga Sutras, the sixth limb—Dharana—is defined as concentration. In practice, it involves binding the mind to a single point of focus. A mantra can be an excellent tool for cultivating this practice. When the mind rests on the mantra, concentration is trained, and we naturally move closer to Dhyana, the state of meditation, where consciousness experiences silence and clarity. Read more about the 8 limbs of yoga here.

A harmonium is a small keyboard instrument, often used in kirtan and mantra singing, to create a warm, meditative sound.

Sometimes I simply repeat the mantras to myself, and other times I find a version on Spotify that I enjoy and sing along with. Mantra practice is not about singing well or beautifully; it’s about letting go, surrendering to the rhythm, and allowing the sound to carry you into the silence beyond your thoughts.

Some of My Favorite Mantras and Their Meanings

Om Mani Padme Hum

This is one of the most well-known Buddhist mantras, especially in Tibetan Buddhism.

The most common interpretation of the mantra is:

Om – the universal sound; here the vibration of creation and the divine.

Mani – jewel, symbolizing love, compassion, and the intention to attain enlightenment.

Padme – lotus, representing purity, wisdom, and spiritual awakening amidst life’s challenges.

Hum – the union of mind and heart, the completion of practice, unwavering stability.

Together, it can be understood as: “The jewel in the lotus” or “May the jewel of compassion bloom in your heart.”

The mantra is said to transform the mind, open the heart, and cultivate compassion through its repetition.

Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu

This is a popular mantra in yoga and meditation, often translated as:

Lokah – worlds, all places

Samastah – all beings, collectively, universally

Sukhino – happy, peaceful

Bhavantu – may they be, let them be

Overall meaning: “May all beings everywhere be happy and free.”

The mantra is used as a prayer or intention for compassion and universal peace, both for oneself and for others. It is often repeated at the end of a yoga session or meditation to send positive vibrations out into the world.

Personally, I enjoy practicing mantras with others the most, and I especially love participating in kirtans.

Kirtan on my yogaretreat on Møn

What is Kirtan?

Kirtan is a musical way of practicing mantras together with others. It has its roots in Bhakti Yoga—which can be translated as the yoga of devotion—where mantras are sung in a group. Most often, it takes the form of call and response, where a lead singer or band sings a line or mantra, and the group repeats it.

The sounds and energy of a kirtan uplift the mind, open the heart, and create a sense of connection.

Whether we chant alone or together, we move from the head to the heart. We clear the mind, strengthen presence, and remember the peace that already resides within us.

Namaste Emely

Curious about mantras and kirtan? You are warmly welcome to join my authentic yoga retreats, where you can safely and gently be introduced to this beautiful aspect of the yoga world.