Mantras are sounds or words that are repeated to protect oneself from harm. They originate from Sanskrit and are tools used in Tantra and Vedic traditions to uplift the mind and induce calmness through repetition. When the frequency of a chant matches the natural frequency of the body, it creates a soothing resonance effect. Different types of mantras include siddha mantras for attainment and shanti mantras for invoking peace. Regular chanting of mantras can enhance health and purification of the mind by spreading positive vibrations. Proper chanting style and opening prayers are discussed.

1. The mantras

2. Definition Mantra is derived from two sanskrit root word MAN - to think/manas TRAI - to protect Whatever one thinks will be protected from ills and evils/ a tool to protect or save ourselves.

3. TANTRA SHASTRAmantras are vedic in originMANTRA – sound dimensionYANTRA – form dimension

4. MnanaatÇayte#it mÙ>,That which uplifts by constant repetition is a mantra. One which gives happiness or calmness to the mind is called mantra . MANTRA – formula, a collection of letters of words with or without meaning The special collection of sounds and sacred words handed down by spiritual teachers. (cosmic mind)

5. zBdgu[km! Aakazm!, Where there is space there is sound . (pancabutas) Anything we chant A U M each one has a different frequency. When two frequencies match there is resonance . Body has got natural frequency. When the frequency of our chanting matches with our body frequency, there will be resonance. This slightest vibration creates a soothing effect in our body which ultimately calms our mind. To attain this one has to chant continuously.

6. Mantras are repeated in three different ways ------- Loudly – which removes the tamas factor Using lips – no sound Manasika – improves concentration

7. Types of mantras SIDDHA MANTRA SHANTI MANTRA

8. SHANTI MANTRAS/PEACE CHANTING To invoke the power of peace Bliss Over all well – being To establish dharma

9. Benefits of mantra Continuous chanting – enhances the person’s health and well being. Increases positive vibration and to spread throughout the body. Purification of mind. Helps in group dynamics To keep the mind focused Helps in meditation – multiple thoughts into single thoughts

10. Style of chanting Savitra – normal Anudatta – below/low Udatta – above /higher (ex – musician)

11. VyasaPushpanjali Prayers - at the beginning of the occasion Slokas – gita Bhajans – emotion culture invoke – intensify – diffuse (ex – Rama bhajan) Patriotism – about the nation

12. Opening prayer ` shnavvtu, shnaEÉun´…, shvIy¡ krvavhE, tejiSvnavxItmStu ma iviÖ;avhE. ` zaiNt> zaiNt> zaiNt>

13. ` mantra & yantra( man . Up) pranava mantra - first sound It is a sacred symbol It is chanted at the commencement of all prayers It compromises of three syllables – A U M Vedic philosophers – equated OM with God

14. tSyvack> à[v>, p.y.s 27 AUM is the word denoting God Three states of existence and experience. Conscious – subconscious – unconscious Jagrat – swapna – sushupti Waking – dream – deep sleep Objective – subjective – non experience Past – present - future

15. meaning May the god protect us both May He take pleasure in both May we be courageous together May spiritual knowledge shine in our front May we not hate anyone

16. Om shantishantishanti KINDS OF PAINS ADHYATMIKA Psychophysical causes (mental & bodily pains) ADHIBHAUTIKA Natural causes (like men, beast, birds & thorns) ADHIDAIVIKA (planets, elemental agencies, ghosts ) Supernatural causes

17. Thank you