Mantra : What they are and why do you need one?

By this point you’ve all probably heard the word mantra tossed around. They are a powerful tool that can be used to help set an intention and for me, ease anxiety. So let’s dive right in.

A mantra is a word or a string of words that you repeat to dial in on something that you are trying to cultivate. For example, a mantra might be, “I am strong” or “I am calm”. Whatever the mantra is, the words used are often powerful and affirming.

There are many different times when a mantra would come in handy. Maybe you’re running a half marathon and you hit a wall at mile 10. ((yes, I’m talking from experience here.)) If you’re mantra is, “Trust the training” you can start repeating that to yourself and drown out the doubt in your mind.

Another great time to use a mantra is when you’re feeling really anxious.

I battle anxiety on a daily basis, and remembering a mantra helps me come back to a place of calm. One of my favorite mantras lately is, “I release my fears to the power of the universe.” This helps me realize that I can’t control everything, and I just need to trust that things are going to happen exactly how the universe means for them to.

You don’t have to pick one mantra and use it forever. That’s the beauty of them. You can pick one in the morning, one for your workout, one for when you’re tossing and turning and can’t fall asleep. The options are endless. Just choose what works for you.

For those of you who don’t want to come up with a mantra for yourself, I’m going to provide a list to choose from.

Pick one that resonates with you and try it out for a few days! When you find your mind straying and focusing on something that you need to let go of, reintroduce your mantra. Take three deep, cleansing breathes, and bring yourself back to the present.

  • I am strong.
  • I am brave.
  • Trust the timing of your life.
  • I am capable.
  • I am exactly where I need to be.
  • I release my fears to the powers of the universe.

Have you used mantras before? What situation do you find them the most helpful in? Share in the comments below!

Emily

Hey! I’m Emily. A food-loving, journalism and sociology major turned AmeriCorps member, turned craft beertender, turned personal trainer. I'm a recent transplant to the Twin Cities, where I live with my boyfriend, Erik and my cat, Trout. Prepare to get well with me: mind, body and soul.

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