Yoga mantras are words and specific, meaningful sound vibrations.
The purpose of mantras is to attract more of what you seek into your life. They are concepts, ideas, and visions you absorb in the form of words. It is thought that if you keep repeating and really believing in a mantra, it will lift your state of mind to that particular vibration.
Moreover, science has proven that chanting a mantra helps to balance the brain’s left and right hemispheres. So this is not just yogi pseudoscience!
Keen to learn more? I thought so! Let’s dive in.
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What are mantras in yoga?
Mantras are sacred audible sounds that awaken your Prana or inner energy and align it with the energy of the Universe.
They are important in yoga because they connect us with the supreme wisdom and divine light. Even single-word mantras, such as Om sound, are immensely powerful.
Mantras can be incorporated into any style of yoga, from Ashtanga to Yin.
The word ‘mantra’ means ‘that which frees the mind from its turmoils and limitations.’ Mantras are phrases like:
- ‘I trust my inner guidance'
- ‘I feel I am on the right path'
- ‘The future is bright'
5 yoga mantras to say in your next yoga class
These powerful yoga phrases can deeply influence our thoughts and actions and serve as guiding principles for a balanced and fulfilling life. Here are five of my favorite mantras:
1. Om
To say the Om mantra a deep breath, and as you exhale, sing the sound of aum.
Om is said to be the sound of the creation of the Universe. When you pronounce it properly /AUM/, you should be able to feel the energy rising from your pelvis all the way up to your crown chakra.
Om is the sound of infinity and ultimate wisdom. It is a great starting point for using mantras. It is said to make you feel calmer and happier if sung daily.
2. So hum
To say the so hum mantra, as you inhale, say So, and as you exhale, say Hum.
In Sanskrit, so hum means “I am that.” This refers to the concept of oneness, or being one with the Universe and universal consciousness.
We are all connected to the universal energy that is constantly there for us and our greatest good. I used this mantra when I was initiated into Siddha yoga, the goal of which is unity with God.
3. Lokah samastah sukhino bhavantu
This mantra is pronounced Low-KAH Sah-moss-TAH Soo-kee-NO Buh-vahn-TOO.
This is a beautiful mantra found in both Buddhist and Hindu mythology. It is translated as “May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.” It is equivalent to the Buddhist metta prayer.
The intention of this mantra is to go beyond our personal, self-centered desires and needs and to think about the collective good of all.
4. The Adi mantra
The Adi mantra is Ong namu guru dev.
It is usually chanted three times in a Kundalini yoga class. and means ‘I bow to divine creative consciousness, I bow to the divine teacher within.’
It reminds us that instead of depending on our spiritual teachers, we have our inner guide whom we should listen to.
5. Om shanti mantra
Om shanti is pronounced aum shh-aunt-eee.
The word shanti purifies and restores balance in the body, mind, spirit, past, present, and future.
This mantra is repeated three times in a yoga class because one cycle is meant for the body, the second for the mind, and the last for the spirit.
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7 benefits of mantras
Mantras are a tool for mental and spiritual transformation that offer profound benefits when integrated into daily practice. Here are seven ways mantras can benefit you:
- Sends healing energy to yourself and others.
- Connects you with your true nature.
- Provides help with mental ailments.
- Brings you into a yoga mindset and the present moment.
- Relieves stress.
- Assists in throat chakra opening.
- Enables you to evolve spiritually.

Takeaway on mantras for yoga
Before you start incorporating mantras into your practice, I suggest taking some time for introspection and thinking about what you need the most spiritually. Is it inner peace or compassion?
Choose your mantra accordingly. Stick to one mantra and repeat it during your spiritual practice, on your walk from work, in line at the supermarket, anywhere you have a moment to spare. Merge with it, become one with your mantra, and you will see what happens.
Om shanti shanti!
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