Mantras and Japa?
Aloha Jeddha
What is your take on using a Mantra during meditation and doing japa during the day? It seems to me that since the nature of the mind is to think, one might as well give it something juicy to chew on, rather then the usual worries, fears, etc. What say you?
Hi Craig
Of course, we can do whatever we like as there is no such thing as a right way. However when the mind is constantly ‘employed’ it is constantly activating awareness into some kind of form, even very subtle form. When we allow our consciousness to rest in awareness, the essence of the mind merges back into its pure light nature and does not activate experience within awareness. We are then able to experience the empty nature of awareness directly (which is actually Fullness).
All the best to you,
Jeddah
Doing japa while engaged in mundane activities allows expanded and focussed awareness (seemingly at the same time!). One becomes not the ‘doer’, but the observer, which gives a great sense of freedom.
I have struggled with the Buddhist description of ‘emptyness’ in awareness, as the experience is of fullness, freedom, and joy.
My experience with Mantra is different. There have been times when I have felt instinctively drawn to a particular Mantra and have found that the words contained a particular energy and power. I seem to be especially drawn to the Gayatri in this sense. I have found this very helpful on occasion. There have also been times, however, when I have sensed that I’m using a mantra in an anxious way. This has been less helpful so I try to practice mindfulness to distinguish my motivation.