In this time of chaos and sorrow, it’s good for us to focus on service rather than on our own personal problems. Considering that we’re still largely housebound after two full pandemic years, this seems like a tall order. We need to remember, however, that we have the power to change the world, simply by changing ourselves. Meditation is one process that helps us to do exactly that; within that grab-bag of practices is the process of mantra, or chanting. Here, where we repeat a word or phrase, often in Sanskrit or Pali, that helps us to align with a reality we’d like to create.
At this time in the Coronavoid, it’s easy to feel dislocated, isolated, and devastated, both because of our personal journeys and while witnessing the scope of the world’s tragedies. Fortunately, there’s a mantram that speaks to these circumstances, and it’s one that I find myself returning to quite often:
Lokah Samasthah Sukhino Bhavantu
In Sanskrit, the word lokah means ‘world’. Samasthah refers to all living beings, including plants, animals, and human beings. Sukhino, a variation of the word sukha, connotes ‘freedom from suffering,’. Lastly, bhavantu is a blanket term not unlike ‘amen’, which implies a pledge or intention to connect with the Divine. Thus, the entire phrase, roughly translated, means the following:
May all beings everywhere enjoy lives of good fortune without restriction. May I have the ability to contribute to this state of being, and may my actions and thoughts help to bring about a better world.
Think about what this means. Isn’t this what we’re trying to do by staying inside and socially isolating? By helping to prevent the spread of coronavirus and other plagues, we are acting to improve the lives of all who live around us, and, by extension, the entire world. We are ‘isolated yet together.’ We act today to help usher in a freer tomorrow.
When we chant this mantra, we can further its impact by visualizing the people we want to influence. Consider sending these words to the doctors, nurses, and other vital staff at your local hospital. Think about dispatching these wishes to grocery store workers and others who don’t have the luxury of being able to self-quarantine. Ponder the impact of this phrase on government officials taxed with the paradox of trying to save both citizens and the economy. In addition, focus on sending these words to yourself; as a person traumatized by an emergency, you too deserve love and healing.
It’s considered de rigeur to meditate in a seated position with a straight back, but it’s also possible to recite a mantra while completing other tasks, perhaps while doing the laundry? Perhaps as part of your yoga practice? Or maybe interchangeably with the word namaste?
I strongly believe that a group of us chanting in concert have the power to make positive changes in our world. Perhaps each of us could take some time today to practice this mantra. If you want someone to lead you in kirtan, check out Sean Johnson and the Wild Lotus Band’s version on YouTube; it’s beautifully melodic and accessible to those without a Sanskrit background. Or try an Internet search to find an alternate version. However you choose to proceed, know that you will be making a difference in the lives of those around you as well as in your own life.
Disclaimer; I am not associated with Sean Johnson and the Wild Lotus Band (although I wish I were!)
Yoga Cielo Stellato 