What is a Mantra? How could it help with Anxiety and stress?
The word mantra can be broken down into two parts: “man,” which means mind, and “tra,” which means transport or vehicle. In other words, a mantra is an instrument of the mind—a powerful sound or vibration that you can use to enter a deep state of meditation. While mantras are often the term used to describe chants used within deep, powerful meditation, don’t let it deter you. Mantras are just positive, affirmative phrases. Mantras are often practiced by the most successful people in the world. Muhammad Ali, the world’s greatest fighter, was quoted saying,…..
"I am the greatest. I said that even before I knew I was.”
Your mind has developed habits, and if you're feeling stressed, anxious, or worried, then those mental habits you've picked up aren't serving you well. All habit change begins in the mind, when we use mantras it interrupts our thinking patterns that are causing us stress and anxiety. We all have times of frustration, stress, or negative thoughts that threaten to ruin our day and it's up to us to us to correct and reclaim our mood and productivity. Sometimes all it takes is a simple mantra to get you back into a positive state of being okay.
How do you Mantra? Find the mantra that works for you; we are all different and what helps you may not help someone else. Try as many mantras as possible to help find what works for you. Find a quiet spot and close your eyes. Let the words flow into you, focus on listening. Try repeating the words, learn the movement of the words. Be patient with yourself as you learn, perfection is not required. Now all that's left is for you to practice your mantras- and yes, you have to practice. Slow down your breathing and really focus on the mantra you are using. Find mantras that are specific to your desires; often the mantras will choose you. Trust your intuition and when one stands out, write it down.
Here are some popular mantras to try:
“Breathing in I calm my body, breathing out I smile.”
“This too shall pass.”
“Feel the fear but do it anyway.”
“Other people feel this way too.”
“My desires are on their way to me.”
“Just keep swimming.”
“I will release what I cannot change.”
“I have anxiety; anxiety doesn’t have me.”
“I am bigger than my fear.”
“This is only temporary.”
“I am stronger than I think.”
“I have enough, I do enough, I am enough.”
“It’s just a bad day, not a bad life.”
“I won’t be fearful of a feeling.”
“It’s only a moment.”
“My anxiety doesn’t define me.”
“I will not fear the unexpected.”
“My breathing will set me free; just breathe.”
If you’re struggling, please reach out to a professional therapist. While affirmations are a great daily practice, it’s important to seek counseling for anxiety when experiencing a crisis.