Mystic Takeaway by Sadhguru

Repeating ‘Aum Namah Shivaya’ with mindful awareness has been a fundamental practice across various spiritual paths worldwide.

The Aum Namah Shivaya mantra serves both as a purifying process and a foundation for meditation. For many, maintaining meditativeness is challenging without the vibrational support of mantras. Incorporating a mantra in life provides a foundational vibration, preventing mental and physical energies from sinking below a certain level.

In Yoga, it is believed that the entire existence is an intricate combination of sound. The fundamental mantra in Yogic culture, regarded as the mahamantra is ‘AUM Namah Shivaya.’ The mantra “Aum Namah Shivaya” is believed to cleanse our system and cultivate a meditative state.

Sadhguru emphasizes the significance of chanting this mantra correctly, highlighting that it should be recited as “Aum Namah Shivaya” rather than “Om Namah Shivaya.”

Importance of Mahamantra ‘Aum Namah Shivaya’

Aum is the vibration that represents the creation of the universe. Namah means bowing down. Shivaya means inner self. Thus, you can see that the mahamantra ‘Aum Namah Shivaya’ is about bowing down to the inner self, which means accepting it as a part of the collective consciousness, which is supreme.

Here we will look at the benefits of chanting the mantra Aum Namah Shivaya.

12 Amazing Benefits of Chanting Aum Namah Shivaya

1. According to Sadhguru, chanting ‘Aum Namah Shivaya’ facilitates removal of barriers hindering greater life possibilities. Its purpose is to clear karmic obstacles, enhancing perception and opening doors to a broader dimension of existence.

2. Aum is the sound of the universe and the syllables Na, Ma, Shi, Va and Ya represent the five elements Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Ether. So, the chanting of Aum Namah Shivaya is said to help harmonize the five elements.

3. Aum Namah Shivaya fills your mind with a positive energy and helps relieve your stress.

4. Chanting Aum Namah Shivaya enhances your energy and cleanses the environment. The energy of Shiva and Shiva tattva, which can be described as the absolute nothingness within us, can be experienced by chanting Aum Namah Shivaya. That’s the power of this chant.

5. Chanting the mantra Aum Namah Shivaya is believed to be of help in mastering the five elements within us, leading us to experience a divine silence, which is the Shiva tattva. Thus, chanting Aum Namah Shivaya can help you access Shiva.

6. The chanting of this mantra helps you achieve control over your senses and your mind. Long years of practice can give you a sense of direction and help you understand your life’s purpose.

7. The positive vibrations generated by the chanting of Aum Namah Shivaya can lift your spirits, help you surrender your ego and achieve self-realization.

8. According to the Shiva Purana, by chanting the panchakshari (having 5 letters/syllables) mantra ‘Namah Shivaya’ for several years, you can attain the abode of Shiva.

9. Chanting this mantra can purify your soul and lead you onto a virtuous path.

10. This mantra is believed to be so powerful that after decades of practicing the chanting of Aum Namah Shivaya, you may attain the status of Lord Shiva himself.

11. An astrological aspect to chanting Aum Namah Shivaya is that, this mantra can help negate the ill effects of certain planets since Lord Shiva governs all the planets.

12. Sadhguru eloquently shares in the following video how incorporating a simple form of yoga into your life begins with this chant. Especially in the current context, where the World Health Organization addresses the possibility of an emerging mental health pandemic, this practice emerges as a potential saviour for humanity.

These were some of the greatest benefits of chanting Aum Namah Shivaya. Among the different mantras or chants, Aum Namah Shivaya is considered one of the most powerful and beneficial ones, as it is the mantra of Lord Shiva who is believed to be an invincible divine power, the destroyer of evil and the greatest of all Gods.

Best Time to Chant Aum Namah Shivaya

This mahamantra of Lord Shiva should be chanted in the morning after taking a bath. It can be chanted anytime during the day, but the best time to chant this mantra is during sunrise and sunset. You may chant it aloud or silently in your mind. It is advisable to chant it 108 times to gain the best experience.

The benefits of chanting Aum Namah Shivaya, or any other mantra for that matter, can be experienced only after practicing it religiously and for a long time. So, start today, if you haven’t yet, and take your first step towards attaining mental well-being and inner peace.

After all, the symphony of serenity begins with the sacred vibrations of Aum Namah Shivaya.

The post 12 Intriguing Benefits of Chanting the Mahamantra  – Aum Namah Shivaya (ॐ नमः शिवाय) appeared first on Stillchemy.

Hanuman chalisa is among the most popular prayers chanted for positive energy, and reciting it daily is believed to serve as a protection against all types of adversities. Recital of this powerful hymn protects against evil energies and enhances inner strength. Those who chant the Chalisa with sincerity are bestowed with the blessings of Lord Hanuman.

So, can reciting the Hanuman Chalisa fulfil wishes?
Does chanting this hymn really work?
What are the scientific and spiritual benefits of reciting the Hanuman Chalisa?

This writeup will answer these questions and also give you the lyrics and meaning of this powerful stotra which is recited daily by millions of Hindus across the globe.

Hanuman Chalisa Lyrics and Meaning

Doha (Couplet)

shree guru charan saroj raj, nij mann mukuru sudhaari

baranaun raghubar bimal jasu, jo daayaku phal chaari

Meaning: I have cleaned the mirror of my mind with the dust of my guru’s lotus feet and I recite the fame of the greatest king of Raghukul dynasty, which gives us the fruit of our four efforts.

buddhiheen tanu jaanike, sumiraun pavan-kumaar

bal budhi bidya dehu mohin, harahu kalesh bikaar

Meaning: Knowing that I am ignorant, I remember the son of Wind, who gives me strength, wisdom and all types of knowledge, and removes my sufferings and shortfalls.

Choapayi (Quatrain)

jay hanumaan gyaan gun saagar, jay kapees tihun lok ujaagar

raam doot atulit bala dhaama, anjani-putra pavanasut naama

Meaning: Victory of Lord Hanuman, the ocean of wisdom and virtue. Victory of the Lord who is supreme among monkeys and the illuminator of three worlds. You are Lord Rama’s emissary, possessing incomparable power, Mother Anjani’s son and popular as son of the wind.

mahaabeer bikram bajarangee, kumati nivaar sumati ke sangee

kanchan baran biraaj subesa, kaanan kundal kunchit kesa

Meaning: Great hero, you are as strong as a thunderbolt. You remove evil intellect and are the companion of those having good ones. Your skin is golden in colour and you don beautiful clothes. You are wearing earrings in your ears and your hair is curly and thick.

haath bajra au dhvaja biraajai, kaandhe moonj janeu saajai

sankar suvan kesareenandan, tej prataap maha jag bandan

Meaning: A mace and a flag of righteousness shine in your hand. You wear a sacred thread in your right shoulder. You are the embodiment of Lord Shiva and vanar raj Kesari’s son. Your glory and your magnificence are limitless. The whole universe worships you.

vidyaavaan gunee ati chaatur, raam kaaj karibe ko aatur

prabhu charitra sunibe ko rasiya, raam lakhan seeta man basiya

Meaning: You are the wisest, the most virtuous and clever (morally). You are eager to undertake Lord Rama’s work. You are happy to listen to Lord Rama’s work and conduct. Lord Rama, Mother Sita and Lord Lakshmana forever stay in your heart.

sookshma roopa dhari siyahin dikhaava, bikat roopa dhari lanka jaraava

bheem roopa dhari asur sanhaare, raamachandra ke kaaj sanvaare

Meaning: Taking a subtle form, you appeared before Mother Sita and taking a great form you burnt Lanka. Taking a massive form you destroyed the demons. This is how you completed Lord Rama’s tasks successfully.

laay sajeevan lakhan jiyaaye, shree raghuveer harashi urr laaye

raghupati keenhi bahut badaee, tum mam priya bharatahi sam bhaee

Meaning: You revived Lord Lakshmana by getting the magic herb (sanjeevani). Raghupati, Lord Rama praised you greatly and with gratitude he said that you are his brother just like Bharat.

sahas badan tumharo jas gaavain, as kahi shreepati kanth lagaavain

sanakaadik brahmaadi muneesa, naarad saarad sahit aheesa

Meaning: Saying this, Lord Rama embraced you. Sages like Sanaka, Gods like Brahma and sages like Narada as well as the serpent with thousand heads, sing your praise. Sanak, Sanandan and other Rishis and saints, as also Lord Brahma, Narada and Saraswati, and the king of serpents sing your glory.

Jam kuber digpaal jahaan te, kabi kobid kahi sake kahaan te

tum upakaar sugreevahin keenha, raam milaaye raaj-pad deenha

Meaning: Yama, Kubera and guardians of the four quarters, poets and scholars, no one can express your glory. You helped Sugriva by introducing him to Lord Rama and regaining his crown. Thus, you gave him the dignity of a king.

tumharo mantra bibheeshan maana, lankeshvar bhaye sab jag jaana

jug sahastra jojan par bhaanu, leelyo taahi madhur phal jaanoo

Meaning: Following your preachings, even Vibheeshana got crowned as the king of Lanka.

You swallowed the sun which is thousands of miles away, mistaking it to be a sweet, red fruit.

prabhu mudrika meli mukh maaheen, jaladhi laanghi gaye acharaj naaheen

durgam kaaj jagat ke jete, sugam anugrah tumhare tete

Meaning: Lord Rama gave you a ring which you kept in your mouth and crossed the ocean, no wonder. All difficult tasks get easy with your grace.

raam duaare tum rakhavaare, hot na aagya binu paisaare

sab sukh lahai tumharee sarana, tum rakshak kaahoo ko dar na

Meaning: You are the guardian at Lord Rama’s door. Nobody can move ahead without your permission which means that Lord Rama’s darshan is possible only with your blessings. Those who seek refuge in you find all the comforts and happiness. With a protector like you, we do not have to be scared of anything or anyone.

aapan tej samhaaro aape, teenon lok haank ten kaanpe

bhoot pishaach nikat nahin aavein, mahaabeer jab naam sunaave

Meaning: You only can withstand your magnificence. All three worlds start trembling at just one roar of yours. Oh Mahaveer, no ghost or evil can come near anyone who remembers your name. Thus, just remembering your name solves everything.

naase rog harai sab peera, japat nirantar hanumat beera

sankat te hanumaan chudavai, man krama bachan dhyaan jo laavai

Meaning: Oh Hanuman, all pains and diseases get eradicated on reciting or chanting your name. So, chanting your name regularly is important. The one who meditates upon your name or worships you with thought, words or deeds, gets freedom from all types of crisis and affliction.

sab par raam tapasvee raaja, tin ke kaaj sakal tum saaja

aur manorath jo koi laavai, soee amit jeevan phal paavai

Meaning: Lord Rama is the greatest ascetic among all kings, but it’s you who carried out all tasks of Sri Rama. One who comes to you with a desire obtains abundance which remains permanent throughout life.

chaaron jug para taap tuhmaara, hai parasiddha jagat ujiyaara

saadhu sant ke tum rakhavaare, asur nikandan raam dulaare

Meaning: Your splendour fills all four ages and your glory is renowned throughout the world. You are the guardian of saints and sages, the destroyer of demons and you are adored by Lord Rama.

ashtasiddhi nau nidhi ke daata, as bar deen jaanakee maata

raam rasaayan tumhare paasa, sada raho raghupati ke daasa

Meaning: Mother Janaki has blessed you that you can bless the deserving ones and grant them siddhis (8 different powers) and nidhis (9 types of wealth). You have the essence of Ram bhakti, may you always remain the polite and sincere servant of Raghupati.

tumhare bhajan raam ko paavai, janam janam ke dukh bisaraavai

ant kaal raghuvar pur jaee, jahaan janm haribhakt kahaee

Meaning: When someone sings your praise, your name, he gets to meet Lord Rama and gets rid of sorrows of many lifetimes. With your grace, one will go to the immortal abode of Lord Rama after death and remain devoted to him.

aur devata chitta na dharee, hanumat sei sarb sukh karaee

sankat kate mite sab peera, jo sumirai hanumat balabeera

Meaning: If one serves Lord Hanuman, he gets all the comforts and it is then needless to serve any other deity or God. If one remembers the powerful Lord Hanuman, his pains and troubles are removed.

jay jay jay hanumaan gosaeen, krupa karahu gurudev kee naeen

jo sat baar paath kar koee, chhootahi bandi maha sukh hoee

Meaning: Oh Lord Hanuman, praises and glory to you, please bestow your grace upon us as our supreme guru. One who recites this chalisa a hundred times, is freed from bondages and will be blessed.

jo yah padhe hanumaan chaaleesa, hoya siddhi saakhee gaureesa

tulasidas sada hari chera, keejai naatha hriday mahan dera

Meaning: One who reads or recites this Hanuman chalisa, all his works will be accomplished. Lord Shiva is the witness to this. Oh Lord Hanuman, may I always remain a servant, a devotee of Lord Rama, says Tulsidas, and may you always stay in my heart.

Doha (Couplet)

pavanatanaya sankat harana, mangal moorati roop

raam lakhan seeta sahit, hriday basahu sur bhoop

Meaning: Oh the son of wind, you destroy all sorrows, you embody fortune and prosperity. With Lord Rama, Lakshmana and Mother Sita, may you reside in my heart forever.

॥ Hail the Lord ॥

Bol Bajarangabali ki jai
Pavan putra Hanuman ki hai
Jai Shri Ram

Meaning
Say, All Hail Hanuman.
All Hail the son of ‘The God of Winds’.
All Hail Shri Ram.

Rules for Reciting Hanuman Chalisa

What is the best time to recite Hanuman Chalisa? When to and when not to read Hanuman Chalisa? How many times should this hymn be chanted for the best results? Are there any dos and don’ts to be followed during the recital of this Stotra? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions like these.

• Pronounce each word in the hymn clearly. Pay attention to your diction and ensure you recite the Stotra in a clear voice while pronouncing each word correctly. The hymn is said to have a better effect if read or recited clearly and correctly.
• The Hanuman Chalisa can be chanted anytime but it is best to recite it before sunrise. Brahma muhurta is considered the best time to chant the Hanuman Chalisa.
• Traditionally, it is believed that Tuesday is the ideal day to worship Lord Hanuman. So, it is advisable to start reading or reciting the Hanuman Chalisa on a Tuesday. It is recommended that you continue the chanting at least for 21 days.
• It is widely believed that the Hanuman Chalisa should be chanted 7 times a day. Some prefer to recite it thrice a day.
• You could place a picture or idol of Lord Hanuman in front of you while reciting the Hanuman Chalisa.
• Meditating on the Hanuman Chalisa is considered ideal.
• It is advisable to wear clean, washed clothes during the recital, as is the rule for performing any sacred ritual.
• Lord Hanuman consumed only sattvic food. So, during the span that you would be reading, reciting, or listening to Hanuman Chalisa, you should not consume alcohol and meat.
• Worshiping Hanuman on Tuesdays is said to remove your sorrows and fulfil your wishes. Worshiping him on Saturdays is believed to help remove difficulties arising due to a certain placement of Shani the horoscope.

Benefits of Reciting Hanuman Chalisa

• Through the wording of Hanuman Chalisa, the qualities of Lord Hanuman are described and his powerful personality is portrayed. Reciting the Chalisa, helps enforce these qualities and the devotion and service of Lord Hanuman in you.
• Reciting the Chalisa lets you seek the blessings of Lord Hanuman.
• The chanting of Hanuman Chalisa gives protection from disease and helps you give good health.
• Reciting the Chalisa creates a shield around you that protects you from calamities.
• Lord Hanuman is considered as the God of life. So, worshipping him by chanting the Chalisa helps increase your life force. Increased life force helps remove fears and self-doubt, and increases your inner strength to take on life’s challenges and sail through difficulties with ease and calm.
• It is said that on chanting the Hanuman Chalisa daily, you gain the blessings of Lord Hanuman, which helps increase your positive energy, enhances your aura and guards you against evil.
• The recital of Hanuman Chalisa helps you get a sound sleep. If you have bad dreams, reciting the Hanuman Chalisa can be extremely helpful. It is said that those getting frequent nightmares should keep Hanuman Chalisa under their pillow to get rid of nightmares and get a good sleep.
• It is said that if someone unwell or struggling to maintain health, recites the Chalisa daily, the power of this chant can help him get rid of disease and attain overall wellness.
• If those in depression or those having anxiety recite the Hanuman Chalisa, the hymn helps them get rid of their problems permanently.
• It is believed that reading or reciting the Hanuman Chalisa daily can help you achieve a better financial status as Lord Hanuman blesses you with wealth and prosperity.
• It is said that reciting this hymn can help you attain success.
• As per astrology, if Mars is placed in certain houses in the birth chart, it leads to Mangal dosha. Chanting the Hanuman Chalisa is believed to reduce the negative effects of Mars.
• Rahu and Ketu are shadow planets, whose position in the birth chart is related to certain problems. Chanting the Hanuman Chalisa is said to lessen the negative effects of Rahu and Ketu.
• Hanuman Chalisa reduces the effects of sade sati and removes the problems that you may be facing due to shani sade sati.
• Reciting the Chalisa helps you feel protected and secure.
• It is believed that those dealing with court cases should recite the Hanuman Chalisa daily as that may help them win.
• Worshipping Lord Hanuman is said to help you complete your journey without hurdles and rid you of the risk of accidents, which is why chanting the Hanuman Chalisa can be useful for completing a long journey successfully and safely.
• It is believed that if you recite the Hanuman Chalisa with devotion, the Lord intervenes in your problems to help solve them and guards you against evil spirits.
• Since Lord Hanuman is a symbol of courage, power and strength, worshiping him through the recital of Hanuman Chalisa helps you lead a healthy and happy life.

Speed that exceeds the pace of thinking; that’s Hanuman.
Guts to swallow the sun; that’s Hanuman.
Strength to cross oceans and conquer mountains; that’s Hanuman.
Devotion that continues through lifetimes; that’s Hanuman!

Worshiping him by reciting the beautifully written hymn Hanuman Chalisa, is the worship of these qualities in a humble effort to imbibe them in you. Jay Hanuman!

Hanuman Chalisa – Hanuman Chalisa Pocket Size Book (Hindi & English)

Shri Hanuman Chalisa in English; lyrics available for download in PDF format.

The post Significance of Hanuman Chalisa: Lyrics in English, Meaning, Rules & Benefits appeared first on Stillchemy.

This mantra helps you forego unwanted attachments and unite with Shiva. Here we tell you about the origin of the Nirvana Shatakam mantra, give you its Sanskrit verse lyrics, English transliteration, translation and meaning, and also enlist the benefits of chanting or listening to Nirvana Shatakam.

Origin of Nirvana Shatakam

Nirvana means formless and shatkam means six. In the context of the mantra, it refers to the six verses of this composition. Adi Shankaracharya composed this mantra more than a thousand years ago just before his nirvana. It is believed that he recited this mantra as an answer to the question ‘who are you?’.

This mantra very aptly describes what being formless means and what it takes to unite with the universal consciousness. It beautifully explains the real meaning of Shiva as being boundless, formless, yet all-pervading and omnipresent. It helps you attain an eternal state of calm and peace of mind.

Lyrics and Meaning of Nirvana Shatakam

Stanza 1

Sanskrit Verse

मनोबुद्ध्यहङ्कार चित्तानि नाहं

न च श्रोत्रजिह्वे न च घ्राणनेत्रे ।

न च व्योम भूमिर्न तेजो न वायुः

चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥१॥

English Transliteration

mano buddhi ahankara chittani naaham

na cha shrotravjihve na cha ghraana netre

na cha vyoma bhumir na tejo na vaayuhu

chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham

Translated Text

I am not any aspect of the mind like the intellect, the ego or the memory,
I am not the organs of hearing, tasting, smelling or seeing,
I am not the space, nor the earth, nor fire, nor air,
I am the form of consciousness and bliss, am Shiva (that which is not).

Meaning

While reciting this stanza, you are saying that you are not the intellect or the memory or the ego. You are not identified by your sensory organs like the ears, tongue, nose or eyes. You are neither the space nor the Earth, nor the fire nor the air, which is to say you are neither of the 5 elements of nature. You are Shiva that embodies nothingness.

Stanza 2

Sanskrit Verse

न च प्राणसंज्ञो न वै पञ्चवायुः

न वा सप्तधातुः न वा पञ्चकोशः ।

न वाक्पाणिपादं न चोपस्थपायु

चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥२॥

English Transliteration

na cha prana sangyo na vai pancha vayuhu

na va sapta dhatur na va pancha koshah

na vak pani-padam na chopastha payu

chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham

Translated Text

I am not the Vital Life Energy (Prana), nor the Five Vital Airs (manifestations of Prana),
I am not the seven essential ingredients nor the 5 sheaths of the body,
I am not any of the body parts, like the mouth, the hands, the feet, etc.,
I am the form of consciousness and bliss, I am Shiva (that which is not)

Meaning

In this verse, you are saying that you are not the prana or its manifestations. You are none of the seven key ingredients or the five layers of the body. You are not identified by any of your body parts, but you are a form of universal consciousness. You are Shiva which represents absolute nothingness.

Stanza 3

Sanskrit Verse

न मे द्वेषरागौ न मे लोभमोहौ

मदो नैव मे नैव मात्सर्यभावः ।

न धर्मो न चार्थो न कामो न मोक्षः

चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥३॥

English Transliteration

na me dvesha ragau na me lobha mohau

na me vai mado naiva matsarya bhavaha

na dharmo na chartho na kamo na mokshaha

chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham

Translated Text

There is no hatred nor passion in me, no greed nor delusion,
There is no pride, nor jealousy in me,
I am not identified with my duty, wealth, lust or liberation,
I am the form of consciousness and bliss, I am Shiva (that which is not).

Meaning

In this stanza, you assert that you garner no passion, greed, delusion or hatred in your mind. You do not have pride. You are not jealous of anyone. Your duties, desires or your freedom, or your wealth do not identify you. You are the form of consciousness and bliss, or that you are Shiva.

Stanza 4

Sanskrit Verse

न पुण्यं न पापं न सौख्यं न दुःखं

न मन्त्रो न तीर्थं न वेदा न यज्ञाः ।

अहं भोजनं नैव भोज्यं न भोक्ता

चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥४॥

English Transliteration

na punyam na papam na saukhyam na duhkham

na mantro na tirtham na veda na yajnah

aham bhojanam naiva bhojyam na bhokta

chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham

Translated Text

I am not virtue nor vice, not pleasure or pain,
I need no mantras, no pilgrimage, no scriptures or rituals,
I am not the experience, not the object of experience, not even the one who experiences,
I am the form of consciousness and bliss, I am Shiva (that which is not).

Meaning

Through this verse, you affirm that you are neither virtue nor vice. You are neither pleasure nor pain. You do not require any mantras, texts, rituals or pilgrimages. You are neither the experience nor the object of experience. You are not even the individual who experiences. You are Shiva, the form of consciousness and bliss, which is to say that your identity is dissolved into that of Shiva who embodies nothingness.

Stanza 5

Sanskrit Verse

न मृत्युर्न शङ्का न मे जातिभेदः

पिता नैव मे नैव माता न जन्मः ।

न बन्धुर्न मित्रं गुरुर्नैव शिष्यं

चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥५॥

English Transliteration

na me mrutyu shanka na mejati bhedaha

pita naiva me naiva mataa na janmaha

na bandhur na mitram gurur naiva shishyaha

chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham

Translated Text

I am not bound by death and its fear, not by caste or creed,
I have no father, nor mother, or even birth,
I am not a relative, nor a friend, nor a teacher nor a student,
am the form of consciousness and bliss, I am Shiva (that which is not).

Meaning

This stanza again emphasizes on the dissolution of one’s identity into nothingness which is the ultimate truth. In this verse you say that you are not shackled by death or its fear. You are not identified by your caste or creed. You are not identified by your role as a father or mother, son or daughter, relative or friend, teacher or pupil. You are rather the form of universal consciousness or you are Shiva himself.

Stanza 6

Sanskrit Verse

अहं निर्विकल्पो निराकाररूपो

विभुत्वाच्च सर्वत्र सर्वेन्द्रियाणाम् ।

न चासङ्गतं नैव मुक्तिर्न मेयः

चिदानन्दरूपः शिवोऽहम् शिवोऽहम् ॥६॥

English Transliteration

aham nirvikalpo nirakara rupo

vibhut vatcha sarvatra sarvendriyanam

na cha sangatham naiva muktir na meyaha

chidananda rupah shivo’ham shivo’ham

Translated Text

I am devoid of duality, my form is formlessness,
I am omnipresent, I exist everywhere, pervading all senses,
I am neither attached, neither free nor limited,
I am the form of consciousness and bliss, I am Shiva (that which is not).

Meaning

In this verse, you say that you are free from duality, you are formless, you are all-pervading like Shiva; you are present everywhere. You affirm that you have achieved detachment from materialism. You affirm that you are neither shackled by any limitations that you may have put on yourself, nor liberated. You are the form of consciousness and bliss, you are Shiva himself.

In all the verses of the Nirvana Shatakam mantra, you conclude by saying that you are Shiva, which means you affirm to yourself that you have attained a state of formlessness, inculcated detachment and surrender, and your identity is dissolved to be one with the universal consciousness, which in other terms can mean that you have imbibed in yourself the Shiva tattva and absorbed the elements that represent Shiva.

These elements include absolute nothingness or darkness which is symbolic of the ultimate reality of life and dissolution of your identity into that of the universe, whereby your consciousness unites with the supreme consciousness or that you unite with the almighty Shiva.

In every stanza of the Nirvana Shatakam mantra, you state what you are not, thus detaching yourself from worldly pleasures and traversing towards spiritualism. In the verses of this powerful mantra you resolve to forsake your desires and your ego, remain unaffected by pleasure or pain, to not be bound by fear or doubt, and to not identify yourself with your body, your possessions, or your role as someone’s friend or relative.

Through this mantra, you assert that you are a form of the formless and all-pervading Shiva, you are boundless and you are one with the supreme consciousness that is Shiva.

Benefits of Nirvana Shatakam Mantra

• It is a highly effective mantra that can lead you to achieve inner peace and salvation.
• This mantra helps you get rid of negative emotions and creates a positive energy around and within you.
• It promotes a sense of freedom and helps you let go of undesired attachments.
• Recital of this mantra can help you adopt a minimalist lifestyle and find happiness in life.
• The vibrations of Nirvana Shatakam help you stay calm. Chanting or listening to this Shiva mantra helps you fight anxiety and depression.
• This mantra helps you achieve an eternal state of calmness, which helps you stay unaffected even in difficult times and experience stability.
• Chanting or listening to Nirvana Shatakam can help you get rid of emotions like jealousy, ego and greed, thus helping you gain mental peace and also enhance your overall well-being.

So, if you wish to enhance your sense of consciousness, gain a deep understanding of the ultimate truth of the universe and imbibe Shiva in the real sense, the Nirvana Shatakam mantra is for you. Understand its meaning, and chant or listen to it daily, to gain a different perspective of life that lets you attain salvation, boosts your overall health, and helps you embark on a spiritual journey.

Nirvana Shatakam Downloadable pdf

Feel free to access and download the PDF to benefit from the mantra.. in English and Sanskrit.

The post Nirvana Shatakam Mantra – Origin, Sanskrit & English Lyrics, Meaning and Benefits appeared first on Stillchemy.

When Sanskrit is taught, it has to be learnt by rote. The sound is important, not the meaning. –

Sanskrit is an ancient language of India and the base language from which several words from many other languages have been derived. Sanskrit serves as the language of Hindu scriptures, scientific texts and poetic compositions like mantras, shlokas, and stotras. Sages and saints have made use of Sanskrit to transmit their teachings across generations.

Throughout the ages, people have been chanting Sanskrit mantras for various reasons—some as a form of meditation, others to express their devotion towards a particular deity, and many to gain spiritual benefits. Here is a look at the incredible benefits of this practice.

Mantras are believed to be highly effective in their ability to influence and resonate with specific energies. Mantras come in various types, each activating specific energies in different body parts. Even modern science supports the Vedic science behind mantras, acknowledging the power of sound vibrations on the human brain.

Chanting mantras isn’t simply uttering words; it’s about becoming the essence of the mantra itself. It requires practice, concentration and faith in one’s guru and initiation.

Hidden Benefits of Chanting Mantras

The practice of chanting involves the repetition of a certain phrase with utmost concentration, which in turn has a meditative effect.

The vibrations created by Sanskrit shlokas are known to help you experience a sense of calm. Their sound reduces the release of stress hormones like cortisol.

Chanting Sanskrit mantras is said to help reduce stress, lower blood pressure and help you stay happy and calm. A daily practice of chanting certain mantras can give you internal strength and enhance your overall well-being.

Chanting of Sanskrit shlokas, when combined with the understanding of their meaning, can help you develop compassion and empathy, and give you mental peace.

With frequent or daily chanting of Sanskrit mantras, they are retained in memory, which in turn helps in boosting memory.

The process of understanding the meaning of these mantras improves cognitive function.

The practice of understanding and chanting mantras introduces you to a new language and learning new languages helps in brain development and increases neuroplasticity.

The pronunciation of Sanskrit words requires certain movements of the tongue which improves speech abilities and pronunciation skills.

Aum chanting is popularly used to raise self-awareness and attain inner peace. Research says that the chanting of Aum affects the vagus nerve in a way that gives you clarity of thought.

In a certain study, those who practice chanting Sanskrit mantras have been found to have more grey matter across their cerebral hemispheres and increased cortical thickness.

The vibrations generated through the recital of certain Sanskrit shlokas are known to trigger the hypothalamus which, in turn, improves the functioning of various body organs.

Spiritually speaking, chanting mantras can help kindle the light within you and raise your alertness and awareness of the self.

Sanskrit Shlokas Examples and Their Powerful Effects

Some Sanskrit shlokas are said to have a specific effect on your physical or emotional well-being. Here are some examples.

Nirvana Shatakam, composed by Adi Shankaracharya, consists of six verses in Sanskrit. It explores the formless nature of the true Self. Chanting Nirvana Shatakam can promote inner peace, reducing anxiety and fostering identification with Shiva.

If you’re interested in learning the Nirvana Shatakam from Project Sanskriti Alumni, you can do so through their platform.

The recital of the Ramraksha strotra is said to help you get rid of fears and serve as a protective shield during difficult times.

Chanting the Gayatri mantra generates pressure on the tongue, lips, palate and vocal cord in such a way that the hypothalamus function improves, in turn boosting immunity and other bodily functions.

Reciting the mantra Om Gan Ganapataye Namaha is believed to help remove obstacles from your path and lead you towards success.

Chanting of Om Shanti Shanti Shantihi is the means to invoke peace into your life.

Om sarve bhavantu sukhinah, sarve santu niramayah, is a prayer which seeks peace and harmony for everyone. By reciting this mantra you are wishing good for everyone, and thus expressing a broad perspective of looking at the world.

A mantra like Samudra vasane devi, which is traditionally chanted before starting your day, is a way to ask for forgiveness to the Earth for touching her with your feet.

The Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra holds immense significance in Hinduism. It is revered for its powerful nature and is often recited in times of distress, illness, or during spiritual practices to seek the blessings and protection of Lord Shiva.

Indian classical music is an evolution of the fundamental process of Nada Yoga. It has the power to make one transcend human limitations and arrive at an ultimate possibility. – Sadhguru

Mantras, being energy-based sounds, create physical vibrations that align with the spiritual energy of the chant. Mantra chanting focuses more on sound than meaning, as it directly connects with the essence of existence. This principle forms the foundation of mantra yoga, also called nada yoga.

Nada Yoga – allows you to utter the sounds that create an inner atmosphere of joy, making it a natural way to be.

– Isha foundation

This exemplifies how shlokas and mantras help imbibe in you, good values like humility, empathy, gratitude, forgiveness and love, which means the fostering of good values is another important benefit of chanting Sanskrit mantras.

Thus, you can see that chanting Sanskrit mantras has physical, emotional and spiritual benefits. So include the ones you like, in your daily routine and see the positive change they bring about in you.

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Tat Savitur Varenyam,

Bhargo Devasya Dhimahi,

Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat

These are the sacred words of the Gayatri Mantra, one of the most powerful mantras which is popularly chanted by Hindus across the globe. It is a mantra from the Rigveda, and also called the Savitri Mantra, it is dedicated to the deity Savitr or Sun God. Sage Vishwamitra is said to have composed this mantra. Written during the Vedic period (1500-500 BCE), it has been chanted for thousands of years and is believed to consist of all the knowledge of the universe. Here is an insight into the meaning of the Gayatri mantra, the rules and benefits of chanting.

Don’t miss the cautionary advice shared at the end of this post.

Meaning of the Gayatri Mantra

The literal meaning of the words in the Gayatri Mantra is as follows:

Om: The sound of the universe (pranava)

Bhur: Bhuloka (physical plane)

Bhuvah: Antariksha (space)

Suvah: Swarga lok (heaven)

Tat: Supreme soul

Savitur: Sun god

Varenyam: Worthy of worship

Bhargo: One who removes sins and ignorance

Devasya: Glory

Dheemahi: We meditate

Dhiyo: Intellect

Yo: Which

Nah: Our

Prachodayat: Enlighten

The Gayatri mantra expresses gratitude towards the almighty for bestowing upon us the power to transform ourselves, the ability to achieve internal growth and attain self-realization. The mantra can be translated as:

Oh divine Mother/God/Protector, may your light illuminate/enlighten all realms of our existence. Please remove the darkness from our minds and bless us with true knowledge.

Benefits of Gayatri Mantra Chanting

Chanting the Gayatri mantra helps improve the intellect and boosts memory.

It helps you feel more positive by removing negative thoughts from the mind and lowering mental stress.

With daily chanting of the Gayatri mantra, one can get rid of sins and negativity and achieve purity of the mind.

This mantra is dedicated to the Sun God, chanting which, one is invoking light and energy into his life.

The mantra expresses gratitude towards the Sun God, thereby seeking his blessings to achieve clarity of thought, self-realization and enlightenment.

Chanting of the Gayatri mantra activates certain chakras in the body, improving one’s ability to focus and concentrate.

It is said that the vibrations created during the chanting of this mantra, activate certain points on the face and skin, whereby oxygen uptake by the body, increases.

The chanting of this mantra opens up the airways and improves breathing, which in turn benefits heart health and alleviates symptoms of asthma.

Chanting the Gayatri mantra is known to activate the hypothalamus in such a way that the immune system function improves, thus giving a boost to one’s immunity.

Daily chanting of this mantra reduces anxiety and puts one’s mind into a state of calm and happiness.

Rules for Chanting the Gayatri Mantra

As per experts, the best time to start chanting Gayatri mantra is the Brahma muhurta (early morning), and the chanting should be continued till sunrise.

The best time to chant Gayatri mantra for the second time in a day, is the afternoon.

A good time for chanting this mantra for the third time in the day, is to start sometime before sunset and continue till sunset.

It is said that one should chant the Gayatri mantra while holding the rudraksha mala in his hand. If not rudraksha, one can hold a tulsi mala or a Chandan mala while chanting.

It is believed that this mantra should be chanted in silence and that saying it aloud may reduce its impact.

According to experts, if chanting this mantra in the morning, one should face the east, and if chanting it in the evening, one should face the west.

It is advisable to chant the Gayatri mantra (or any other mantra for that matter) under the guidance of a guru till one learns it completely. This is to avoid any mistake in the words or pronunciations so that the maximum benefit of the mantra can be reaped.

While chanting the Gayatri mantra, clean clothes should be worn and satvik foods should be consumed.

Mystic Takeaway – Be Careful While Chanting!

Gayatri mantra is a powerful process. It was generally taught to every householder for wellbeing, health & success. But powerful sounds like Gayatri mantra need to be uttered properly. Improper usage of powerful sounds can cause disruptions in one’s life. – Sadhguru

Sadhguru tells a true story about a woman who lost her voice due to incorrectly chanting the Gayatri mantra. Watch the video for the complete narrative.

So set out a certain time of the day to chant the very powerful Gayatri mantra. It is one of the most sacred and the most universal of all Hindu mantras. Start chanting it a few times every day, and as you gain interest, increase it to 108 times or more, and seek blessings of the supreme source of light and positive energy – the Sun.

The post Gayatri Mantra in English: Meaning, Benefits and Rules of Chanting appeared first on Stillchemy.

Most Sanskrit mantras start with ‘Om (Aum)’. What happens if we chant Om daily? Why is Om chanting so powerful and what is the result of chanting Om? If you have questions like these, this writeup will help you, as it enlists some important health benefits of Om (Aum) chanting.

Tapping into the Power and Benefits of Aum (ॐ) Mantra

Chanting Aum activates the hypothalamus, which plays a key role in enhancing immunity and releasing happiness hormones. This, in turn, supports your body’s self-healing mechanisms and contributes to overall well-being, keeping you in a state of happiness.

Chanting Aum is said to purify the environment, as this sound creates positive vibrations.

The sound, breathing and rhythm followed while chanting Aum, helps channel the energy in our mind and body and activates all the chakras in the body.

Mental Benefits of Aum Chanting

Chanting Aum daily increases your ability to concentrate, improves your memory and helps in improving focus.

Aum chanting helps you balance your emotions. Those practicing the chanting of this powerful mantra for a long time, are known to be better at handling stress.

Daily chanting of Aum is known to improve your quality of sleep, as it helps achieve emotional balance and helps relieve anxiety.

Physical Benefits of Aum Chanting

Aum chanting lowers blood your blood pressure and restores a healthy heart rate.

Aum chanting improves blood circulation, detoxifies the body, gives a glow to your skin and improves overall health.

Aum chanting creates certain vibrations in the vocal cords and sinuses, which helps clear the airways and provides relief from sinus problems.

The chanting of Aum strengthens the vocal cords and the muscles around and can thus help in enhancing the texture of your voice.

The Right Way to Chant Aum

Spiritual masters advise that the sound of Aum should be created from the abdomen. Chanting Aum this way, helps in strengthening the abdominal muscles and since the vibrations travel through the spinal cord to your head, Aum chanting can help in giving strength to the spinal cord.

If you are intrigued by these benefits of Aum chanting and if you are thinking of practicing this daily, here is a quick tip on how to chant Aum correctly. It is advised that you sit upright with your legs crossed and eyes closed, take a deep breath, exhale, then inhale, start saying the ‘a’ sound, followed by the ‘oo’ sound, and then while exhaling, get your lips together to say ‘mmm’. Repeat this multiple times. According to experts you can start with 11 times daily and increase it to 108 times or even more.

Mystic Takeaway by Sadhguru on Aum Chanting

Sadhguru emphasizes the significant benefits of chanting the sound ‘Aum.’ Regular practice of Aum daily alleviates fear, stabilizes the mind and body, and even aids attention disorders in children. Regardless of psychological disturbances, Aum serves as an initial prescription, proven to help individuals overcome the need for psychiatric medication. For those facing life challenges, consistent Aum chanting brings about a transformative shift within a couple of weeks, positively impacting overall well-being.

Benefits of Chanting Aum (ॐ) Daily?

Daily, focused Aum chanting can guide you into a meditative state, bringing profound relaxation to your mind, body, and soothing your soul.

The immediate benefits of Aum chanting and the real power carried by this sacred sound is best experienced by practicing Aum chanting consistently, and years of practice can help you on your spiritual journey.

If Aum chanting is practiced in a group, its effects are amplified, and interestingly, not only the person chanting Aum, but also those listening to him, can obtain its benefits. So, may you realize the power of Aum, include Aum chanting in your daily routine, and reap its maximum benefits to achieve wellness. Aum !

The post Secret Benefits of Om (Aum) Mantra Chanting appeared first on Stillchemy.

This mantra helps individuals connect with the healing force within themselves, supporting them in times of trouble and guiding their spiritual growth. Its potency has been mentioned in ancient texts like Yajurveda and Rigveda, where it was believed to possess the divine power to cure diseases and offer fearlessness in life. By pleasing Lord Shiva, the Mahamrityunjaya mantra is said to bring relief from troubles and hardships.

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra Lyrics in Sanskrit

ॐ त्र्यम्बकं यजामहे सुगन्धिं पुष्टिवर्धनम् |
उर्वारुकमिव बन्धनान्मृत्योर्मुक्षीय माऽमृतात् ||

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra Lyrics in English

Aum Tryambakam yajaamahe sugandhim pushtivardhanam
Urvaarukamiva bandhanaan-mrityormuksheeya maamritaat

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra Meaning

We worship the three-eyed One, who is fragrant and who nourishes all.
Like the fruit falls off from the bondage of the stem, may we attain liberation from death and mortality.

It is important to note that the sounds and resonance of the chants are more crucial to practitioners than the literal meanings. Like music, these sacred chants create an inner experience, and how one hears or feels them matters more than the precise translations.

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra Benefits

Chanting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra regularly can bring relaxation to the mind, body and soul. The Maha Mrityunjaya mantra is believed to have healing energy associated with Lord Shiva; and is said to provide various benefits, including protection from evil forces, prevention of mishaps, protection from diseases, stress relief and peace of mind.

The mantra is considered to have positive effects on different aspects of life, such as spiritual growth, overcoming fear and negativity, removing obstacles and seeking blessings from Lord Shiva. The mantra can be recited while taking medicines or engaging in healing processes to enhance their benefits. For those in healing professions, regular recitation of the Maha Mrityunjaya mantra can be beneficial to channel healing energy for nourishment.

To practice the mantra correctly, one must learn its pronunciation and meaning. Reciting the mantra while calming the mind and focusing on the breath immensely aids in the meditation process. Starting with a few repetitions and gradually increasing the number can be beneficial, with a focus on the heart center or brow chakra for better results.

In daily meditation, meditators often begin by reciting the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra as an invocation before proceeding with their practice. The number of repetitions can vary, ranging from 1, 3, 9, 11, 21, 27, to 56 or 108, depending on individual intentions and needs. However, chanting the mantra 108 times is considered ideal for maximizing the benefits of this powerful mantra.

Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra pdf

Here’s the Maha Mrityunjay Mantra in PDF format: [PDF LINK]. Feel free to access and download the PDF to make use of the mantra.

Many meditators include the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra in their daily routines, believing it can lead to enlightenment, success in meditation and overall well-being.

The post Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra In English: Meaning and Benefits appeared first on Stillchemy.