Why Do We Chant Mantras in Yoga?

Chanting is a common practice in yoga classes that can help to create a meditative and focused atmosphere. We commonly chant mantra at the beginning and end of the class at Mahé Yoga. Chanting can shift our mindset positively on the body, mind, and spirit.

One of the primary reasons for chanting in yoga is to create a sense of unity and community among practitioners. Chanting together can help to create a sense of connection and shared intention, which can be empowering and uplifting.

Another reason for chanting is that it can help to calm the mind and reduce stress. Chanting can be a form of meditation, and the repetition of a mantra or sound can help to quiet the mind and promote relaxation. Chanting can also help to awaken the energy centers in the body, known as chakras. Certain sounds and mantras are believed to have specific vibrational frequencies that can activate and balance these energy centers, promoting health and well-being.

While the scientific research on the effects of mantra chanting is limited, some studies suggest that it may have a positive impact on health and well-being. Here are some examples:

1. Stress reduction: Several studies have found that mantra chanting can reduce stress and anxiety. For example, a 2016 study published in the International Journal of Yoga found that chanting the mantra "Om" was effective in reducing anxiety and depression in a group of adults with mental health disorders.