As both a yoga instructor and the CEO of Yoga Beyond The Studio, one mantra that has become a steady companion in both my personal practice and my leadership journey is: "I am grounded, I am open." I often repeat this during my own yoga sessions--especially when I'm feeling scattered, overwhelmed, or pulled in too many directions (which, let's be honest, happens more than I'd like to admit as a small business owner). The first part, "I am grounded," helps me reconnect to the present moment. It reminds me to feel my feet on the mat, my breath in my body, and my place in the now. The second part, "I am open," encourages me to soften--to new ideas, new challenges, and even to the unknown. This mantra has been a gentle but powerful reminder that I can be strong and stable without being rigid, and open-hearted without losing my center. It's become an anchor not just in yoga, but in how I lead my team, show up for clients, and navigate the everyday ebb and flow of running a business rooted in well-being.
I have been teaching yoga for over 20 years. In my classes, I have used many themes and have guided many students. I truly am blessed! The one constant is that I close each class with the words..May You find Peace through yoga and spread the peace to others. These simple words are profound and express my hope for all. Peace is priceless.
Personally I love to affirm safety and presence in the body before anything else. It's helps cultivate awareness for the present moment. And it allows you expand your energy field. Something like "I am safe to be me. The more I am present with myself the more I am able to be free" works really well for beginners. And as you get more advanced you can begin creating your own mantras and affirmations with the same energy.
Meditation, Yoga Philosophy and Pranayama Breathwork Teacher at Mantra Yoga & Meditation School
Answered a year ago
In my personal view, a mantra is not merely a repetition of words--it is a sacred sound vibration, a verbal form of Vedic hymn known as Sabda Brahman. When chanted with intention, it becomes a powerful energetic force that creates an invisible armor around us, purifying our energy field and dissolving negativity. It helps clear the mental clutter and aligns our consciousness to a higher frequency, promoting clarity, peace, and purpose. Mantras are divine formations of Sanskrit syllables, carrying spiritual potency within their sound vibrations. When chanted with devotion--be it to Lord Shiva, any chosen deity, or simply the universal divine presence--the mantra awakens an inner force that destroys negative tendencies and uplifts the quality of our thoughts, actions, and overall life experience. Personally, I find great support and transformation through the chanting of mantras such as: Om Arogyam - invoking perfect health and healing. Om Alokam - calling in divine light and clarity. Om Anandam - awakening bliss and joy within. These mantras are simple yet deeply profound. When repeated with full awareness during yoga practice, they harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. Om Arogyam brings balance to the body, Om Alokam illuminates the inner vision, and Om Anandam expands the heart with joy. Together, they offer a complete spiritual experience--health, light, and bliss. For me, mantra is not just a tool--it is a sacred path to inner transformation.
A personal mantra that I often find comforting and empowering during yoga practice is "I am present and peaceful." This simple affirmation helps create a gentle reminder to stay anchored in the moment, allowing any external worries or thoughts to momentarily dissipate. By repeating these words, I can better harness the essence of mindfulness, which is central to both yoga and meditation. This practice supports self-awareness and grounding, essential for achieving deeper relaxation and focus during each pose. Reiterating "I am present and peaceful" during different asanas also fosters a serene environment within the mind, which in turn, reflects through the body. It encourages a connection with the breath, enhancing each movement and deepening the overall yoga practice. This mantra serves not just as a tool for concentration but also as a bridge to cultivating a lasting state of calm that I can carry beyond the yoga mat into daily life. By embracing this affirmation, each practice becomes an opportunity to nurture peace within, contributing to overall well-being.