Mantras

‘Guru Brahma, Guru Vishnu, Guru Devo Maheswarha,
Guru Saakshaat Param Brahma, Tasmai Shri Guruve Namaha’

We usually chant mantras at the beginning and end of yoga class.  There are a number of mantras to choose from and each has great meaning.  Mantras are meant to calm the mind and remove obstacles (physical, divine and internal obstacles).  A calm mind on a clear path allows us to stay focused, absorbing our yoga practice.

Shanti mantras or peace mantras are prayers from the Vedas.  We chant these most often in my classes.

They create a calm mind and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for the opening and closing of yogasana practice.

Here are just two examples of chants we may have in class.

Please note translations in Sanskrit can vary.  These are the translations that I have been taught.  You may come across variations but the essence is generally the same.

Shanti Mantra Opening

om saha navavatu
saha nau bhunaktu
saha viryam karavavahai
tejasvinavadhitamastu ma vidvisavahai
om shanti shanti shanti

Om. May that protect us both, teacher and pupil. May that cause both to enjoy the bliss of liberation. May we both exert to find out the true meaning of the scriptures.

May our learning be brilliant. May we never quarrel with each other.

Om ! Let there be Peace in me !Let there be Peace in my environment !Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me!

Shanti Mantra Closing

om sarve bhavantu sukhinah
sarve santu niramayaah
sarve bhadrani pasyantu
maa kaschid-dukha-bhag-bhavet
om shanti shanti shanti

Om. May all be happy.
May all be free from disabilities.
May all look to the good of others.
May none suffer from sorrow.

Om ! Let there be Peace in me !Let there be Peace in my environment !Let there be Peace in the forces that act on me!