MORNING CHANTS

How and when should we chant a mantra so that we get the best results? — Prakash C Saha, 65 years

The sound of a mantra helps the practitioner to know his true Self. There should be a fixed time and place for mantra sadhana. Brahma muhurta or early morning is best for the practice. Keep chanting the mantra without consciously keeping track of the numbers.

Initially, you might find mantra chanting a chore, but gradually, you will begin to feel the peace and calmness that a regular practice brings. Mantra chanting eventually purifies the mind. However, don’t attempt sadhana with expectations; do it as nishkama karma, selfless or desireless action. The practice will help you touch base with your real Self.

Mantra Yoga is a tool to control the mind and to help one to rise above the mind’s chatter. We spend most of our energy thinking about the past or planning for the future. As a result, we are always stressed and anxious.

We can’t seem to stop ourselves from thinking these useless thoughts that really have no bearing on our present. These thoughts only end up confusing and disturbing us. That’s where mantra sadhana proves useful. It helps us to control our wayward mind and its thoughts. A disciple can ask his guru to prescribe a mantra, then, recite it at a fixed time during the day or even while going about his regular work.

With regular practise, one begins to imbibe the rhythm of the mantra in every moment of life and becomes tranquil and peaceful. We then start following the right path through conscious thoughts.■

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