Right way of mantra chanting (Jaap)
1. Vaikhari: Loud Chanting
In the Vaikhari method, you chant the mantra out loud. This means you say the words of the mantra in a voice that can be clearly heard by yourself and possibly by others around you. It's like reading aloud instead of in your head.
2. Madhyama: Whisper or Silent Chanting
Madhyama is more about chanting silently. Your lips may move as if you're speaking, but you don't actually make any sound. It's kind of like mouthing the words to a song without singing out loud. This method is considered one of the best ways to chant.
3. Pashyanti: Mental Chanting
When you use the Pashyanti method, you don't move your lips or make any sound. Instead, you repeat the mantra silently in your mind. It's all about focusing internally and keeping your concentration on the mantra.
4. Para: Becoming the Mantra
The Para method is the most advanced form of chanting. Here, you don't need to physically chant, move your lips, or even think the mantra in a conventional sense. It's believed that at this level, you become one with the mantra. It's as if the essence of the mantra is within you, and no effort is needed to chant.
Effective Mantra Chanting
- Best Time: Morning is considered the best time for mantra chanting. However, other significant times include midnight, noon, and sunset.
- Consistency: It's recommended to chant at the same time and place every day to build a routine and enhance the spiritual atmosphere.
- Location: Choose a specific spot for your chanting practice and try to use it every day.
- Preparation: Light an incense stick before starting as it helps in creating a conducive atmosphere.
- Visualization: Imagine the image of the God in your heart while chanting. This is specific God mantra chanting.
- Direction: Face north or east when chanting a sun mantra for better alignment with spiritual energies.
- Seating: Use a red mat and sit in the lotus position (Padmasana) to maintain a straight posture for better focus and breathing.
- Handling the Mala (String or Garland): Use your thumb and middle finger to rotate the mala beads. Avoid using the index finger as it's traditionally not used in mantra chanting.
- Respect for the Mala: Cover the mala with a cloth while chanting to keep it clean and respected.
By following these methods and advice, the practice of mantra chanting can become a more focused and spiritually enriching experience.
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