We do a lot of mantra in our kids yoga and meditation programs (as well as in our adult classes), and parents often wonder what it is and why we do it. Mantras are fun-- and, like learning another language, best started when we're young!
What are mantras? They are messages that we repeat in our heads. For example, mantra in your child’s head could sound like: “I can’t do that”, “I’m not smart”, “She’s better than me”, “I’m fat”. Or: "I'm clever", "I'm better than him", "I'm good at this", "I'm cute". Even positive messages could be internalized in a negative way, for example, “you’re so cute” may not feel good if s/he doesn't want to be "cute" or simply wants to be acknowledged for more than how they look. Negative mantras carry a low frequency, and we seek to connect with higher vibrations. In the ancient, sacred, poetic language of Gurmukhi— sometimes called “the funny words” by our kids —the high vibratory frequencies of kundalini mantras uplift, center, ground, clear, and strengthen the connection to one’s own inner voice or intuition. Repetition of these mantras serve to ingrain positive beliefs in oneself. Here are just a few of the translations that these mantras seed:
What a great vocabulary to add to your child’s repertoire! Like getting your daily vitamins. And loving hugs. And blessings from the Universe. All in one. This is a powerful and conscientious reason to teach our kids mantra-- Sat Nam! ❤️
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Awhile back I reflected on the fact that I wasn't a very generous person. Somehow, merely acknowledging this "out loud" has helped me to take the next step seemingly without effort.... to become a more generous person. One of the items on the list from the link I shared in that post was to spend time with a generous person. And to embrace gratitude. I read the list and, to be honest, did not set out to do these things. Like I said, it was as if just putting the acknowledgment out there set my mind-- or rather, heart --in motion. I have found that, through my yoga community, I did in fact surround myself with generous people. People who volunteer to make yogi tea, those who fill the studio and even the space by our front door with plants and also care for them, those who take the garbage out and clean it, some bring delicious & healthy food to share, and much more. I have watched and marveled at the ongoing generosity-- and have truly felt enormous gratitude for the time and efforts of each. I have discovered that that feeling of gratitude for those who give of themselves generously has shifted my own attitude towards how I value and spend my time and efforts. This is what makes a community and a life. The return on investment has no measure.
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AuthorI am the Essential Soul Mama. I am a mama, a soulful-spiritual teacher, an intentional storyteller, and a lover of stories of all kinds, in all forms. I write about emotions, parenting, natural health options, mind-body-soul connections, and anything that elevates our lives. Archives
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