Mantras as Pearls of Wisdom - By Kate Ottrando
Mantras as Pearls of Wisdom
Using mantras can help to break through subconscious barriers to evoke true positive change. - Laura Gemme
By Kate Ottrando, Student Worker with The WELL
I first learned about mantras in the Positive Psychology group - one the amazing groups offered by the WELL at SBCC. Mantras are short statements someone can say to themselves throughout the day or night, and mantras are used to promote mental health. The beautiful thing about mantras is that people can create exactly the mantra they need. This explains why mantras are often unique and deeply personal. Here are some powerful examples of mantras I have heard, some of which were shared during the Positive Psychology group:
“Be brave. Be bold.”
“Anything is possible.”
“Grow through what you go through.”
“I may not be where I want to be, but thank goodness, I’m not where I used to be.” “I am enough.”
“Treat yourself.”
“Be gentle with yourself.”
“May I be well.”
As you can tell, these mantras are very simple, yet they are full of power and wisdom. According to research on psychology and communication, our thoughts determine our actions and our behaviors. So, if we repeat these types of mantras to ourselves once in a while, perhaps we will make healthier and more positive decisions in life. Perhaps we will feel calmer and more uplifted. This is how mantras support mental health and wellness. Mantras help us to live in the moment. They help us remain centered and focused. They serve as reminders that we are worthy of self respect, peace, joy, and health.
For guidance in the process of writing your own mantra, please check out this link:
https://www.oprah.com/inspiration/how-to-create-your-own-personal-mantra
It is inspiring to read or hear the mantras others have constructed. If you are interested reading more mantras composed by everyday people, please open this link:
https://www.sclhealth.org/blog/2019/09/16-mantras-to-start-the-day-off-right/
Thinking about mantras, and how much they can support out mental wellbeing, made me remember this quote, “Enjoy the little things in life because one day, you may look back and realize they were the big things” (Kurt Vonnegut). I like to think of mantras as little pearls of wisdom. We may find that these simple statements are more impactful and meaningful than long messages. Mantras may be so valuable and precious to us, that we cherish and hold onto them for a lifetime, just as we would with actual pearls.