What Is a Transcendental Meditation Mantra?
A Transcendental Meditation mantra is a specific sound or vibration, traditionally rooted in Sanskrit, used silently during meditation. These mantras hold no literal meaning but are selected for their calming sound quality and resonance with the subconscious.
When repeated silently, the mantra helps the mind settle into a state of profound inner peace—transcending thought and tapping into pure consciousness.
Why Are TM Mantras Kept Secret?
One of the unique aspects of TM is that mantras are personally assigned by a certified teacher and are meant to be kept private. This confidentiality:
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Strengthens the mantra’s personal connection.
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Prevents external associations that might weaken its effectiveness.
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Preserves the purity of the practice.
- Can be based on the person’s chracteristics
How Are TM Mantras Selected?
Mantras are assigned based on a number of factors including age, sound quality resonance, and teacher training passed down from Maharishi Mahesh Yogi.
Only certified TM instructors are trained to assign these mantras correctly to ensure optimal benefits.
Alternative mantras do exist.
Common Transcendental Meditation Mantras by Age & Gender
Disclaimer: The mantras below are for informational purposes only. Authentic TM practice involves personal mantra assignment by certified teachers. This list reflects general patterns and should not be used to substitute formal instruction.
| Age Range | Male Mantra | Female Mantra |
|---|---|---|
| 10–11 | Ing | Inga |
| 12–13 | Im | Ima |
| 14–15 | Inga | Ima |
| 16–17 | Aing | Aima |
| 18–19 | Aim | Aima |
| 20–21 | Shiring | Shirima |
| 22–25 | Kiring | Kirima |
| 26–29 | Kirim | Kirima |
| 30–34 | Sham | Shama |
| 35–39 | Shama | Shamika |
| 40–44 | Shiring | Shirima |
| 45–49 | Shirim | Sharima |
| 50–54 | Sham | Shama |
| 55–59 | Shama | Shamika |
| 60+ | Shama | Sharima |
Always seek personal guidance from a certified TM teacher to ensure the correct mantra is assigned to you.
The Transcendental Meditation mantras are chosen specifically by the Guru who has mastered the technique. Each mantra has a specific vibration that helps the mind to settle down and experience deeper levels of consciousness. There are thousands of mantras which can be used but the effect of each can be different. There are beej mantras from which many other mantras were derived, each with a specific aim.
Some common Mantras for General Meditation include:
- Om
- So Hum
- Aing
- Aim
- Klim
- Krim
- Shirim
- Om Namah Shivaya
- Om Shanti
- Om Mani Padme Hum
- Hare Krishna
It is important to note that while these mantras originates from hundred of years ago, are also used in other forms of meditation, sadhna or yoga, and should only be practised under the guidance of a teacher. Transcendental Meditation uses personalized mantras that are chosen during a personalized initiation session. These mantras are not typically shared publicly, as they are specific to each individual, based on gender, age and other factors and are meant to be kept confidential. The mantras for TM are made up of syllables or sounds that have a calming and centering effect on the mind. The practice of mantra japa is meant to help experience a deep state of relaxation and transcendental consciousness.
Transcendental Meditation
If you are interested in learning more about this type of meditation and obtaining your own personalized mantra, it is recommended that you seek out a certified TM teacher in your area. They will be able to provide you with a personalised path on the practice.
Aum Gam Ganapataye Namah.
This is a mantra from Ganapati Upanishad. This Ganesh mantra is suitable for repetitions and for yoga sadhana. This is based on the word, ‘gam’, which is the beej (seed) mantra for Lord Ganesha. Chanting this will keep your mind calm and concentrated and you will be able to focus better.
Great mantra for obstacle removal and success.
Benefits of Transcendental Meditation Mantras
Overall, using a mantra during TM can give you a range of potential benefits for physical, emotional, and mental well-being. However, it’s important to note that the effects of TM may vary from person to person, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new wellness practices.
Reducing stress
It has been found to be effective in reducing stress and anxiety, as well as improving mood and overall well-being. Various studies have confirmed that practicing this type of meditations with a selected mantra can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels by promoting relaxation and improving emotional well-being.
Improving brain function
It can lead to increased activity in certain areas of the brain, such as the prefrontal cortex, which is responsible for decision-making, attention, and emotional regulation. It improves cognitive abilities.
Enhancing creativity
It improves creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. Some people report feeling more creative and inspired after practicing TM with a mantra; it can help stimulate the imagination and enhance mental clarity.
Improving overall health
TM has been linked to many health benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, reduced risk of stroke and heart attack, and lower rates of depression and anxiety.
Overall, using a TM mantra can be a powerful tool for improving both physical and mental health.
Promotes relaxation
It can induce a deep state of relaxation, which can lead to improved sleep and reduced feelings of fatigue. The result is a more relaxed body and mind alike.
Lowering blood pressure
It can have a positive effect on blood pressure levels for those who mediate. It can be beneficial for people with hypertension (high blood pressure) or cardiovascular disease.
Improved focus
Using a mantra during TM can help improve concentration and focus by allowing the mind to become more centered and less distracted by external thoughts.
Better Sleep
Meditation with a mantra has been shown to help people sleep better, indicating improvements in sleep quality, duration, and overall restfulness. Better sleep in its turn will give the body other benefits and energy.
Disadvantages of TM and its Mantras
It is important to note that these potential disadvantages or negative points are not true for everyone who practices TM, and many people have found this form of meditation to be beneficial and fulfilling. However, it is important to approach any form of meditation with an open mind and a critical eye, and to consider all of the potential benefits and drawbacks before making a commitment to a particular practice.
Overall, using a mantra during TM can give you a range of potential benefits for physical, emotional, and mental well-being. However, it’s important to note that the effects of TM may vary from person to person, and it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new wellness practices.
- Cost: TM can be quite expensive to learn, with fees charged for instruction and ongoing support. This can make it inaccessible to many people who might otherwise be interested in practicing meditation.
- Lack of variety: While some people find the repetition of a single mantra to be calming and soothing, others may find it boring or not stimulating. How to find your mantra for transcendental meditation ? Without the opportunity to explore different meditation techniques, individuals may not be able to find a practice that suits their needs.
- Cult-like associations: Some people have criticized the organization that promotes TM, the Maharishi Foundation, for its alleged cult-like tendencies and its promotion of potentially harmful practices such as “yogic flying.”
- Lack of scientific evidence: While there is some research suggesting that TM can have positive effects on mental and physical health, many of the claims made by proponents of this practice have not been rigorously tested or proven.
- Potential for distraction: Depending on the individual, the use of a mantra may not be effective at quieting the mind and may actually serve as a source of distraction or annoyance. In some cases, the repetition of a mantra can even trigger unwanted thoughts or feelings.
- Lack of personalisation: TM relies on the use of a standardized mantra, which may not be suitable for everyone. Without the ability to tailor the practice to an individual’s specific needs and preferences, some people may find it difficult to fully engage with this form of meditation.
Other types of Meditation Mantras
Meditation mantras from Vedic scriptures are often sacred sounds, words, or phrases that are chanted or repeated during contemplation to focus the mind and promote spiritual growth. Here are some well-known Vedic mantras and their explanations:
- Om (Aum):
- Explanation: Om is considered the most fundamental and powerful mantra in Vedic tradition. It represents the sound of the universe, the essence of all existence. It consists of three syllables: A (representing creation), U (representing preservation), and M (representing destruction). Chanting Om helps unify the mind, body, and spirit and is often used to begin or end a meditation session.
- Gayatri Mantra:
- Mantra: “Om Bhur Bhuvah Swaha, Tat Savitur Varenyam, Bhargo Devasya Dheemahi, Dhiyo Yo Nah Prachodayat.”
- Explanation: The Gayatri Mantra is dedicated to the Sun God and is considered a source of divine wisdom. It is chanted to seek the illumination of the intellect, guidance, and spiritual awakening. Each of its elements is associated with different aspects of the universe and the divine.
- Mahamrityunjaya Mantra:
- Mantra: “Om Tryambakam Yajamahe, Sugandhim Pushtivardhanam, Urvarukamiva Bandhanan, Mrityor Mukshiya Maamritat.”
- Explanation: Also known as the Maha Mrityunjaya Mantra, it is a powerful prayer to Lord Shiva for protection against death and liberation from the cycle of birth and death. It is often chanted for physical and spiritual healing.
- Shanti Mantra:
- Mantra: “Om Sarve Bhavantu Sukhinah, Sarve Santu Niramayah, Sarve Bhadrani Pashyantu, Ma Kashchid Dukh Bhag Bhavet.”
- Explanation: This mantra is a prayer for peace and well-being for all beings. It is chanted to promote harmony, unity, and the absence of suffering in the world. It’s often recited at the beginning or end of rituals and meditative practices.
- Om Namah Shivaya:
- Explanation: This is a popular mantra dedicated to Lord Shiva. It translates to “I bow to Shiva” and is believed to help the practitioner connect with the divine, invoke blessings, and purify the mind and body.
- Om Shanti:
- Explanation: “Om Shanti” simply means “peace.” It is often chanted to bring inner and outer peace during meditation sessions, promoting a sense of tranquility and serenity.
- Om Mani Padme Hum:
- Explanation: While not strictly from the Vedic tradition (it is from Tibetan Buddhism), this mantra is well-known and chanted for its compassionate and healing qualities. It is believed to invoke the blessings of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddha of Compassion.
- So Ham (Soham):
- Explanation: This mantra is often associated with the breath and is derived from the Sanskrit words “Sah” (He) and “Aham” (I). When meditating with this mantra, one synchronizes the inhalation with the sound “So” and the exhalation with the sound “Ham.” It signifies the oneness of the individual soul with the universal consciousness.
- Aham Brahmasmi:
- Explanation: This mantra translates to “I am Brahman” or “I am the ultimate reality.” It emphasizes the realization of one’s identity with the supreme consciousness (Brahman) and the recognition that the individual self is not separate from the divine.
Mantra meditation involves repetition and deep contemplation of the chosen mantra with faith, and the effects can vary from person to person, but often include increased focus, inner peace, and spiritual growth.
Transcendental Meditation (TM) is a specific form of mantra meditation that has been popularized and trademarked by the Transcendental Meditation movement. While TM is one of many meditation techniques available, you might be interested in exploring alternatives if you’re looking for other approaches to meditation. Here are some popular meditation techniques you can consider:
- Mindfulness Meditation: This is one of the most well-known forms of meditation. It involves focusing your attention on the present moment, observing your thoughts, feelings, and sensations without judgment. It can be done sitting, walking, or during everyday activities.
- Vipassana Meditation: Vipassana is an ancient meditation technique that emphasizes self-observation and insight into the nature of reality. It often involves focusing on the breath and body sensations to develop awareness and insight.
- Zen Meditation (Zazen): Zen meditation is rooted in Zen Buddhism and involves seated meditation (zazen). Practitioners focus on their breath, posture, and often a koan (a paradoxical question or statement) to deepen their understanding.
- Loving-Kindness Meditation (Metta): Metta meditation focuses on cultivating feelings of love and compassion toward oneself and others. It involves repeating positive phrases or intentions to send well-wishes and love to oneself and others.
- Mantra Meditation: Similar to TM, you can choose your own mantra or use a word or phrase to repeat silently during meditation. Mantra meditation can be adapted to suit your personal preferences and beliefs.
- Guided Meditation: In guided meditation, an instructor or recorded voice provides guidance and imagery to lead you through a specific meditation practice. This is a helpful option for beginners.
- Body Scan Meditation: This involves paying close attention to the sensations in different parts of your body, often starting from the toes and moving upward. It’s a way to relax and develop body awareness.
- Chakra Meditation: Chakra meditation focuses on the energy centers within the body and aims to balance and activate these centers through visualization and meditation techniques.
- Yoga Nidra: Also known as yogic sleep, this is a state of conscious relaxation that guides you through a body scan and various awareness exercises to promote deep relaxation and healing.
- Breath Awareness Meditation: This is a simple form of meditation where you focus your attention on your breath. Observing the natural rhythm of your breath can help calm the mind.
- Christian Meditation: Centering Prayer and other Christian meditation practices involve quiet contemplation and focus on a specific word or phrase from a religious tradition.
The effectiveness of meditation techniques can vary from person to person. It’s essential to explore different methods and find the one that resonates with you and fits your goals and beliefs. You can also combine elements from different techniques to create a personalized meditation practice that suits your needs.
