While mantras and affirmations are quite similar, they do have a few key differences. An affirmation is a word or phrase you repeat until you believe it to be true. For instance, one useful affirmation is, “I am loved.” A mantra is a powerful sound or vibration that can help you relax your mind. Let’s take a moment to focus on mantras and how they can lead to an open mind.
Using Mantras to Improve Open-Mindedness
As you practice yoga or meditation, your teacher or guide may encourage you to chant, whisper, or silently recite calming sounds. Neuroscientists are beginning to find that mantras have the ability to calm your mind and nervous system. As you relax and repeat the sound, you may begin to access higher levels of consciousness and deeper intuition.
Mantras can help you improve your open-mindedness because they tend to quiet negative thoughts and give space to creative thoughts. As you meditate, use your mantra to achieve a state of being where you feel confident and secure. Focus on the sound of the mantra and the feeling of your deep breathing.
Uplifting Mantras for an Open Mind
The best mantra is one that evokes feelings of creativity, confidence, and happiness. Before your yoga or meditation session, think about what you want from this quiet time. Work on clearing your mind and making room for only positive feelings and calm thinking. Here are some mantras you can use to open your mind:
- Om (Aum): Om is the best mantra because it is the base for many other mantras. It represents the essence of pure reality or consciousness.
- Om namah shivaya: This uplifting mantra translates to “I bow to Shiva.” As you honor this Hindu deity, you can connect to your inner self.
- Lumen de Lumine: Many consider this, which translates to “Light of Light,” a happiness mantra as it helps you overpower any feelings of darkness. The purpose is to drown yourself in feelings of lightness and be more open to the world.