Mantra is the oldest yogic practice and is the greatest legacy of the ancient Yogis. It represents the very heart of Yoga practice. Through mantra japa meditation, most Yogis have achieved a state of self-realization in the past.  The word “mantra” consists of two words, “manas” and “trayate”. “Manas” means mind, while “trayate” means instrument. A mantra is an instrument that serves to purify and calm mental activity, to rise above the mind.

There are many different types of mantras. Some of them serve to overcome fear, understand life, awaken energy, purify and transcend the small mind, while others also have a great power of manifestation. Some have a specific meaning, while others are pure vibration without any particular meaning. The most potent of all mantras are those called Mahavidya mantras. They are an essential part of Shakti Tantra and have the power to purify all the meditator’s karma and open the door to a state of inner freedom, which, in yogic language, is called Mukti.

The power of a mantra is in its vibration, which frequency resonates with our energy body and nervous system. Each mantra is like an ampoule of pure energy. Their pronuntiation generates energy in the body. This energy cleanses the nervous system of mental and emotional blockages, accumulated karma and elevates consciousness. This type of inner purification is necessary if peace is what the soul desires.

The energy of a mantra is activated through diksha (initiation), within one of the authentic traditions-sampradayas in which mantra is the main practice on the path of self-realization. The tradition must be uninterrupted, within which the same knowledge is transmitted through generations of Yogis. Without it, the mantra is “only” sound, in which Shakti is inert and has no power to transform consciousness. Also, the direct teacher from whom diksha is received must go through mantra japa meditation with a series of mantras that are part of the tradition, awaken their energy within his own body and go through inner transformation. In addition, they must be authorized by their teacher to give diksha. These are the timeless, sacred rules of the world of mantra, especially Shakti Tantra. Then the student receives energy protection and a real, direct and highly potent energy tool that has the capacity to awaken Kundalini Shakti and complete enlightenment of consciousness.