The word 'Mantra' has been composed by combining two words: 'Man', which means mind, and 'Tra', which means medium or vehicle. Mantra is condensed and coded knowledge in few words, which have positive energy and impect. In other words, a mantra is an instrument for mind, which have a powerful sound or vibration, used by anyone to enter a deep state of meditation or to calm the mind. Mantras are powerful tool to transcend the mind to higher level of consciousness. Mantras such as 'I am strong', 'I am focused' and 'I let go and surrender' help the practitioner to maintain a connection in the state s/he wishes to cultivate while sitting or lying down on mat.
In ancient times, sages used to hear natural vibrations produced by various things, weather and creatures. Those were the sounds of wind, running water of river, rustling of leaves and branches of trees, rumbling clouds and noises made by animals and birds. They realized that these sounds are an expression of the spirit that is present in everything and all around. According to Yogic tradition, 'Om' also called 'Aum', is considered as the most elemental sound, which represents infinite universal sound. For centuries, people have used this mantra for chanting to get focused and aware of self & the divine power.
Om is universal basic sound/ Nada that consists of :
A - means Brahma, the generator of body (Beginning)Gayatri Mantra (also considered as essence of the Vedas) is considered as the foremost mantra in Hinduism and Hindu beliefs. It inspires wisdom through its meaning that 'May the Almighty Devine enlighten our intellect and lead us along the upright path'. The mantra is also a prayer to the 'giver of light' - the sun (savitur).
The Gayatri Mantra has been continuously recorded and recounted in Rig Veda, the first of the Vedas, in Sanskrit about 7500 to 8500 years ago. Sages, saints and religious people have been chanting the Gayatri Mantra over the years, till now.
The Sanskrit words used in this mantra are very soothing and appear in a rhythmic pattern due to which it becomes powerful as the person chants it continuously. Chanting the Gayatri Mantra daily as a spiritual practice does wonders to the person as it makes him/her focused, well balanced and brings in positivity within. What is good about this mantra is that anyone from any religion, caste, creed can chant it. It is your intent and willingness towards chanting the mantra.
Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha, Tat Savitur Vareneyam
Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi, Dhiyoyo Nah Prachodayat
I meditate to the glory of the Creator;
Who is the creator of this Universe;
Who is worthy of prayers;
Who is the epithet of awareness and life;
Who purifies one of oblivion and depravity;
Who sustains one and all;
Who is the giver of happiness and energy;
May He open our hearts and enlighten our Intellect;
May he direct our mind and soul in the right direction.
