Mantra and Mourning the Past
Image: Shutterstock/Jorm S
Positive or negative, all change is hard. With change we are letting go of old patterns and mindsets. We are effectively entering into a new lived experience. This new-ness requires a period of mourning; there’s no getting around it. During this time we grieve the old as we make way for the new. The grieving process is necessary, but it isn’t open-ended and at some point it will be time to move on.
This entry is specific to positive change. The loss of a loved one, a break-up, or job separation comes with a different intensity of grief that requires its own set of tools, though mantra meditation could be an effective part of that, just perhaps done differently. If you are grieving from this type of loss I recommend looking into grief counseling to help see you through. You deserve all the support you need.
As necessary as it is, for even positive change the grieving process translates as suffering and tricks us into thinking we’re doing something wrong. As a result, we might flex back to old habits to avoid the pain. This feeling can actually compound if it isn’t gently acknowledged and attended to. As we say goodbye to the old ways, the use of mantra as both meditative and intervening tactics can help steward our entry into a new lived experience.
Mantra has a long history in human experience. The word itself is attributed to Hinduism and Buddhism, meaning the practice of uttering a word, syllable, or phrase for the purpose of achieving transcendence or insight. Other religions and spiritualities have similar practices. Mantra has been around for so long because it is a powerful tool. It can be used both in regular meditation and for interrupting negative thought patterns.
Researchers at the Weizmann Institute of Science have found that repetitive speech “induces a significant reduction in thought-related cognitive processes…[accounting] for the uniquely calming effect of Mantra meditative practice”. This calming effect soothes the mind and quells rumination. In addition, mantra can be used as a way to interrupt these thought patterns, in the moment and on-the-go. If the mantra is tied to a vision of the new or future state, it has the power to replace old thoughts with an entirely new mental framework, even as quickly as you can say the word.
Let’s Try Something
How does a person get a mantra? There are many ways. In the case of these tactics I recommend starting with a vision of your desired state. This can also be a list of the new thoughts and experiences that are replacing the old. Only list what you are gaining; not what you are giving up. Now, conjure a word or two, or even a short phrase, that exemplifies that ideal vision state. This is your mantra. If it doesn’t come to you right away, give it a little time. This is your custom tool. Just be certain it reflects the vision and not the present or past condition.
As mentioned, your mantra can be used in two ways. You can repeat your mantra during regular meditation, either quietly in your mind or through soft murmurings. You can also use it in the moment to interrupt those mournful or negative thoughts that seem to arise out of nowhere. Simply say the word or words once to yourself as a reminder of your new mindset. You might prefer one over the other, but by practicing both tactics you are only deepening their power.
What will be your mantra?
In creativity and compassion —