By Kimaya Singh
What should Yoga teachers know about mantras? So much information is surfacing within the yoga field lately that it seems impossible that there is time to cover all the unique facets of the practice in a single 200-hour training course. It is likely that certain subjects were barely touched on in your training, and mantras might be one of those.
It is always a good idea to continue learning, and it could be useful to understand more about incorporating the use of mantras and chanting into your classes.
What exactly defines a mantra?
A mantra simply defined is a sound, word, or phrase verbalized repeatedly. The Sanskrit definition broken down is “man” which means mind, and “tra” meaning instrument. The literal translation is an instrument of the mind.
What is the purpose of mantras?
A mantra is a tool that will aid in focus and clarity. While chanting a mantra, you are usually able to pull your thoughts in and quiet all the other clatter inside your chattering brain.
Where did mantras originate?
There are four classifications of mantras. Throughout history, the mantras taken from the Vedas are considered the most sacred. The Upanishads and the Tantra Gantri are other sources of ancient recorded mantras. Finally, the Puranic mantras taken from the Mahapuranas are a more casual daily mantra.
What about kirtan?
Kirtan comes from a Sanskrit word meaning to praise or glory. It is simply putting mantras into a singing form with repetition. Quite often, traditional instruments such as hand cymbals called kartals, or a double-headed drum called mridanga accompany kirtan.
What is Japa meditaton?
Japa is simply the art of mantra meditation. The beads a meditator uses as a marker to count the number of mantra repetitions are often referred to as japa beads.
How will learning mantras improve your practice?
Many students come to yoga for the spiritual aspect. It is becoming more widely accepted to incorporate chanting mantras into a yoga class. Yoga is a holistic practice, which incorporates physical, emotional, and spiritual elements. In addition, you will become a more focused and aware teacher by engaging in a regular chanting practice from a personal perspective.
What are the most essential mantras?
Of course, the repetitive sound of Om is one of the most widely recognized mantras. The Tibetan mantra Om Mani Padme Hum, which translates to “Hail the Jewel in the Lotus,” is a simple and commonly used mantra.
Chanting mantras can be a rewarding and personal part of your practice. As you delve into the discovery of this aspect of yoga, you will find yourself drawn to specific mantras that you will want to share with your students.
© Copyright – Aura Wellness Center – Publications Division
See our testimonials to find out what our graduates have to say about teaching yoga students and our online yoga teacher training intensives.
If you are a teacher, yoga school manager, blogger, e-zine, or website publisher, and are in need of quality content, please feel free to use my blog entries (articles). Please be sure to reprint each article, as is. Namaste!
Related Posts:
Yoga Mantras for Different Purposes
Yoga Mantras for Managing Anxiety
