Finding Joy in Repetition Through Japa, Chanting Mantras

There's an old saying that goes, "There is joy in repetition." The healing art of japa, or chanting mantras, is proof that this statement is valid. Over the last few decades, we have learned through many scientific studies the many health benefits of meditation. How sitting in silence can bring us much pleasure in life, a sense of well being and overall peace of mind.

However, silent meditation isn't the only type of meditation that can benefit us as well. Sound therapy is especially important to our well-being also. Chanting is considered a type of sound therapy in meditation. The sound of the word or phrase that is chanted vibrates throughout the body, the mind, and the spirit, which is believed to cleanse the individual of both physical and spiritual debris.

Studies have shown that meditation can reduce high blood pressure, improve circulation, and ease physical pain. A recent study at Harvard has shown that meditation helps to reduce aging. With all of this great information, it's no wonder why so many people are turning to meditation as a healing tool to help them along with other therapies they may be implementing.

There are some who have tried meditation and believe that it has absolutely no effect on body, mind, or spirit at all. But there are thousands upon thousands of people who have tried it and have had amazing experiences with meditation. These studies along with people's personal experiences makes one wonder about the power of the mind to heal itself along with the body and the spirit.

Over the last several years, the writing and speaking of positive affirmations have become more popular as well. Repeating affirmations are another form of japa. Therefore, no matter how you choose to do it, this highly effective form of meditation can help improve many areas of your well-being.

Most meditation courses and information state that meditating once or twice per day for fifteen to twenty minutes each session is the best routine to have for optimal results. However, like with all things in life, you have to fit it into your schedule as you have time to do it.

Keep in mind, meditation is one of those things that require passion and discipline. You don't have to be a Buddhist monk or an aspiring yogi going through intensive teacher training to experience the joy of meditation through chanting. Below are three popular phrases to chant during your next or first meditation session.

Mantras for Meditation

Om - This is a Universal sound that is chanted all over the world. This word means many things to many different people. 'Salutations' is a Hindu meaning of Om. To many people, Om is another word for God. The chant is said as it looks, however, it is also chanted emphasizing the following sounds - A (ah) U (oo) M (mm) - each letter or sound is spoken very slowly and with feeling.

Om Mani Padme Hum - (Om - mah - nee - pahd - may - home) - This chant means 'Hail, to the jewel of the lotus.' This chant is often associated with and said for the goddess, Kuan Yin. It brings joy. It is great for cleansing the spirit.

All is Well - The Unity churches as well as Louise L. Hay have made this phrase very popular over the last few decades. It is very powerful. A beautiful phrase expressing positive energy. It is excellent for cleansing the mind of fear and replacing it with love.

Give chanting a try during your next meditation session. See if you can find joy in repetition.