The word "Mantra" is a Sanskritword, made up of two root words."Man" means "mind" or thinking "tra" means to "release or free". Therefore the meaning is to free the mind and thinking from the material sphere of consciousness, thus transcending the physical world. Mantras have been brought to, us from saints, yogis, Sadhus, and Maharishis who have practiced them for several thousand years.Mantras are sacred sound vibrations, which contain great spiritual power and energy. They can be used in rituals, whispered, or chanted.

Chanting mantras'produces harmony on all levels. Hindus believe that god,good health,fortune,and victory over enemies can all be attained by chanting the right-mantra. Mantras are usually practiced for an area of life that one wants to improve. There are many categories of mantras a few of which include: curing disease; warding off negative planetary influences; threatening an enemy's actions; distracting enemies, obtaining liberation

Mantras are highly potent sounds that may also be chanted by anyone that wants to bring their beneficial effects into their lives. They can also be chanted by Hindu priests on behalf of the requester. These Sanskrit prayers are believed by Indians to be a way to bring the grace of the god/ Planetary deity into one's life - with the hopes that obstacles will be removed or true desires fulfilled. Mantras are very devotional by nature, so one would think that the results created by a mantra would be influenced by the practitioner's level of faith.

The Effects Of Mantra On Human Mind

A mantra is composed of sacred sound vibrations whose energy frequencies effect both the human sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system. The parasympathetic nerves are spread in a fine network around and internal organs. The sympathetic nervous system generates the neuro motor response and influenced the right and left sides of the brain. Mantra practice involves the left hemisphere of the brain and is therefore effective in increasing positive emotions.

The intonation and melody,which are essential parts of mantra, remove negative emotions.In association with a symbol - the mantra provides the right hemisphere of the brain with a concrete image the object of emotional attachment. Mantra practice excites the emotions and gives suggestions to the mind. It affects both the chanter and the listener. Chanting Mantra promotes harmony on all levels as it awakens the spiritual self. Once awoken, ultimately the spiritual self, or soul, turns within to the source of all power and can direct spiritual energy not only for personal benefit but for the good of all others.