Mantra: Chant your stress away!
Why do we usually chant “aum” or a mantra before we start a yoga class?
There are various reasons why, and it comes from the intention the teacher wants to bring across to the students. Most mantras are in Sanskrit, and many students find it challenging as they do not understand Sanskrit. The beauty of the mantra lies in the resonance that is created within us. When the vibration touches our mind, it helps in releasing any built-up tension before we start the practice.
Though most mantra sound monotonous, the slow sound frequency enables us to break-away from our usual fast paced activities, slows down our breathing and decelerates the flow of our thoughts; being present for the practice, with full consciousness.
For a start, we need not stress ourselves with the meaning of the mantra. Without any analysis, learn how to sing them and feel the energy within. “Mantra” also means repetitive; the simplest way to learn them is to listen repeatedly and sing it again and again.
I was pretty impressed when a pair of Danish siblings, Victoria (12 years) and Philip (9 years) requested me to teach them a mantra. We started the few lessons with “aum” and they felt the immediate calmness and simply love it! A couple of mantra sessions and here is what we have got to share with you!