Practical suggestions for
chanting the ‘Name’ (Part 1)
In this article we will read about the method of chanting God’s name and the rules for using the japamala.
In this article we will read about the method of chanting God’s name and the rules for using the japamala.
Let us understand the comparison between Karmakanda (Ritualistic worship), meditation and singing bhajans with chanting.
With practice of pranayam one gets used to concentrating on breathing. Since one gets used to concentrating on breathing, when it becomes rapid one immediately becomes aware of it. This implies that indirectly one becomes aware that either thoughts have increased or emotions are being aroused.
Usually breathing occurs for about an hour through the right nostril. Then for two to four minutes through both the nostrils. Then again through the left nostril for an hour and later for two to four
minutes through both. Then again through the right nostril. This cycle goes on continuously. By practising anulom-vilom pranayam one gradually gets used to breathing through both nostrils.
Muscles of the eyelids and respiration are supplied by both the voluntary and involuntary nervous systems. If one makes efforts to decrease voluntary
movements of these muscles by doing tratak and pranayam then their involuntary movements too can gradually be decreased and brought under control.
Endurance of pain increases mental strength and detachment towards worldly life and therefore the mind turns to Spirituality. By experiencing unhappiness destined actions are completed. However the real motive behind practising Hathayoga is not limited to merely bringing about an increase in the tolerance of the mind but to activating the kundalini.
Each one feels like finding out the one from whom he has been created and feels like returning to Him. Each one feels at least subtly like going in search of the Creator and desires to return to Him.
Mantra Pronunciation and its importance : The science of Mantra has originated from the word (shabda) Brahman. The energy of a mantra lies in its pronunciation. That energy is manifested from frequencies generated in the atmosphere by the sound vibrations that are generated through its chanting.
The energy of any mantra lies in its bija. The chanting of a mantra is efficacious only if an appropriate bija is selected. The bijas activate the deity of the mantra.
A purashcharan, that is, the worship of a deity performed with a tantra, mantra and chanting (japa) and the prescribed rituals are done to enable the mantra to give the expected results, before commencing the chanting of the mantra.