Making a Mantra

Have you got a mantra?

If the answer is no, then that’s OK, you’re not alone! In fact, mantras are still a relatively new concept to many of us, we tend to associate mantras with wellbeing practices like mediation or yoga.

Mantras, however, are no new fad, in fact they date all the way back to ancient, spiritual traditions, where the word itself derives from an ancient Indian language called Sanskrit, translated the word mantra means ‘instrument of the mind’.

Consisting of a word, or a collection of words, a mantra is designed to boost our confidence, concentration and aid our focus. Traditionally mantras are based on repetitive sounds or phrases, with one of the most popular mantras being known as the Om mantra, where the word Om is chanted repeatedly.

Mantras have now evolved to be simple affirmations, a sentence or two to encourage self – acceptance, emotional resilience and to keep you grounded in the present.

So what makes a good mantra? Well, a good mantra is a powerful mantra; it should speak to our soul and pack the potential to create lasting changes in our emotions and behaviour. A mantra should hold personal meaning for you, as well as being rememberable so it can be easily recalled in any given moment.

For example,

I am enough

Today I will focus on what makes me feel good

I am at peace with who I am

I believe in my potential

I trust I am on the right path

I put my energy into things that matter for me

A mantra can help you practice and pursue your intentions, living out the values you set each day and putting into focus your own aspirations and goals.

To create your own mantra allow yourself to find a peaceful place where you can pause and reflect. Find a piece of paper, or use a journal, to write about how you’re feeling lately, how you wish to feel and what you’d like to achieve. After writing look back over your notes and notice any themes emerging. Maybe you want to feel more confident. Maybe you feel particularly stressed and want to feel at peace. Your mantra can be tailored to your circumstance, so see if you can turn your thoughts into a meaningful, positive phrase.

For example, if you are feeling worthless, a mantra that works on some self – esteem could give that much needed boost.

For example

I am worthy of respect and love, just as I am

I deserve to have boundaries and advocate my own needs

I release the need for perfection and embrace my authentic self

So why not create a mantra that resonates with you? Here at Upbeat Liverpool we would love to hear about words you live by, so feel free to send over your mantras to claire.williams@pss.org.uk