March Meditation Month

In the early 80's, I began a meditation practice that was deeply satisfying. Twice a day for 20 minutes, I would practice mantra meditation, rest a few minutes, and awaken rejuvenated. Then my life changed with the end of the century and I got away from it. For several years now, I've struggled to get back into daily meditation practice. When I flipped the calendar to March 2010 - I decided the time was right to challenge myself to bring daily meditation back into my busy life.

If you've never tried meditation, or have tried it given up in frustration, please know that its harder than it seems. The mind seems to kick into busy mode the second you decide to still it. Or you suddenly become so sleepy you'd rather nap. It is all part of the process.

My favourite way to meditate is with a mantra and a set of mala beads. I have a very old mala beads made of sandalwood, which have been restrung several times and smell more like me than sandalwood. They hold the pure vibration of my mantra and just holding them helps prepare my mind for practice.  I sit on my bed with pillows propped up behind my back and start with a few deep breaths. I say a prayer to center myself, and offer my meditation to God. I ask that God show insight into my life and work through me to accomplish His will in my life. And then I begin repeating my mantra, turning one bead for each repetition. As thoughts come, I let them be, and continue with my mantra. At the half way point, I have a smooth amethyst bead - which always encourages me to keep going and finish the round. When I finish the strand, I will lie down for about 5 minutes to enjoy the peaceful feelings and satisfaction of having completed the practice.

There are 108 beads on a mala plus a "teacher or guru" bead which is generally larger than the others. I start and end with the teacher. If you choose to do a longer session, it is suggested to turn the strand and not "cross the teacher". I see this as a way to honor all my teachers and join with them in the repetition of mantra.

What is a mantra? Mantras are unique mystical, sacred Sanskrit syllables, words, or phrases which, when repeated in meditation will bring about a higher state of consciousness.  These sounds or energies that have always existed in the universe and can neither be created nor destroyed. Mantras are on a wavelength far beyond physical sound. Mantras were originally revealed to Rishis (seers or sages) in the deepest states of meditation. They are one of the earliest components of yoga and are considered the first type of meditation to be developed.

Japa or mantra meditation releases the energy encased in the sound.  The energy literally manifests itself creating a specific thought pattern in the mind.  With sincere practice, repetition of a mantra leads to pure thought where sound vibration merges with thought vibration. It is in this way that mantra repetition leads to a state of oneness, of non-duality with God. Mantras are said to increase in power in direct relationship to the number of times repeated.  A mantra is fully empowered by becoming “seated” in the heart after 125,000 repetitions, achieving what is called Mantra Siddhi

Which mantra to use?? There are thousands of Sanskrit mantras known in yogic texts. You can choose one of those or use a word or phrase that is meaningful to you. Repeating the word Peace is a simple and effective mantra.
Probably the most widely chanted mantra throughout the world is OM MANU PADHME HUM. This mantra is pre-eminent in producing a state of dynamic compassion in the sayer. 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 recite this mantra daily.

SO HAM (so hum) - This mantra is unconsciously repeated each time we take a breath.  Inhale “so”, exhale “hum”.  It means “I am That” – beyond the limitations of mind and body, at one with the Absolute.

Whatever mantra you choose, practice with it for a minimum of 40 days to anchor it in your consciousness.

Please let me know if you'd like to join me in this meditation challenge. Add your comments and check back for