Mantra Yoga or Japa Yoga
What is Mantra Yoga or Japa Yoga?
Mantra Yoga and Japa Yoga are spiritual and philosophical forms of yoga, and are considered very important because they help us to realize eternal bliss, peace and immortality.
‘Mantra’ is the name of the Divine Being, and ‘Japa’ is the repetition of this Mantra many times. Repeating the name of the Divine Being is a powerful tool and is a part of Dhyana (meditation), which is again an essential part of yoga. Japa Meditation and Mantra Yoga Meditation are important for the yogi (a person who practices yoga) to attain self-realization.
Types of Japa:
One usually starts with loud verbal repetitions of the Mantras. This is known as Vaikhari Japa. It is useful in the initial stages of meditation, because it helps to drown out other worldly sounds which are distracting.
You can also do the repetitions (Japa) by whispering or softly humming the Mantras. This is called Upamshu Japa.
As you get deeper into meditation, you can switch to Manasika (mental) Japa. Here you do the repetition of the key word of the Mantra in your mind.
The power of Mantra Yoga and Japa Yoga: It is thought that even if you mechanically repeat the Japa, without really feeling spiritual, you will still reap the benefits, and your heart and mind will gradually become purified. And gradually a true deeper feeling will enter your mind.
This is because words and sounds have extraordinary Sakti (power). For example, if someone shouts ‘Snake’, you will be frightened. If someone calls you a ‘nice person’, you smile. But if someone calls you a ‘donkey’, you frown or get angry. If these ordinary words and sounds have so much power, how much more powerful is the name of the Divine Being (Mantra)? And when you repeat it (Japa) so many times, it creates strong vibrations which purify the mind and soul.
How to do Japa Yoga meditation:
Benefits: The practice of Japa Yoga meditation is very calming to the mind. It also teaches you perseverance and tenacity. It is especially effective when you do it before going to sleep at night.
Mantra Yoga and Japa Yoga are spiritual and philosophical forms of yoga, and are considered very important because they help us to realize eternal bliss, peace and immortality.
‘Mantra’ is the name of the Divine Being, and ‘Japa’ is the repetition of this Mantra many times. Repeating the name of the Divine Being is a powerful tool and is a part of Dhyana (meditation), which is again an essential part of yoga. Japa Meditation and Mantra Yoga Meditation are important for the yogi (a person who practices yoga) to attain self-realization.
Types of Japa:
One usually starts with loud verbal repetitions of the Mantras. This is known as Vaikhari Japa. It is useful in the initial stages of meditation, because it helps to drown out other worldly sounds which are distracting.
You can also do the repetitions (Japa) by whispering or softly humming the Mantras. This is called Upamshu Japa.
As you get deeper into meditation, you can switch to Manasika (mental) Japa. Here you do the repetition of the key word of the Mantra in your mind.
The power of Mantra Yoga and Japa Yoga: It is thought that even if you mechanically repeat the Japa, without really feeling spiritual, you will still reap the benefits, and your heart and mind will gradually become purified. And gradually a true deeper feeling will enter your mind.
This is because words and sounds have extraordinary Sakti (power). For example, if someone shouts ‘Snake’, you will be frightened. If someone calls you a ‘nice person’, you smile. But if someone calls you a ‘donkey’, you frown or get angry. If these ordinary words and sounds have so much power, how much more powerful is the name of the Divine Being (Mantra)? And when you repeat it (Japa) so many times, it creates strong vibrations which purify the mind and soul.
How to do Japa Yoga meditation:
- Select any Mantra (or name of Divinity in keeping with your religion). Repeat it at least 108 times or till 1,080 times. You can use a ‘mala’ (string of beads) to help you keep count.
- The early morning or dusk is the best time to practice Japa and meditation. Set aside two hours for it.
- You can take a bath before you sit down to Japa, or at least wash your face, hands and feet.
- Facing north or east makes the Japa more effective. Sit in Siddhasana (Meditation Pose) or Padmasana (Lotus Pose).
- Repeat the Mantra slowly and clearly and think of the Divine Being while you chant. Do not beg for material goods when you do Japa.
- Regularity is essential to help you attain a higher level.
Benefits: The practice of Japa Yoga meditation is very calming to the mind. It also teaches you perseverance and tenacity. It is especially effective when you do it before going to sleep at night.
