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Mantra, japa, mala, bija: the words and practices, explained simply.
- Japa mala: what it is and how to use 108 beads
A japa mala is 108 beads plus a guru bead for counting mantras. How to hold it, which finger to avoid, materials like tulsi and rudraksha, and simple rules.
- Bija mantra: the seed syllables Om, Shreem, Hreem, Gam and more
A bija mantra is a one-syllable seed sound like Om, Shreem or Gam. What each main bija means, the chakra and planet bijas, and how to chant them.
- What is a mantra? Meaning, types and how to begin
A mantra is a sacred word, sound or verse repeated to focus the mind. Where the word comes from, the main Hindu and Buddhist types, and how to begin.
- Why chant a mantra 108 times? The traditional reasons
Why mantras are chanted 108 times: the stars, planets, scriptures and breath behind the sacred number, the practical reason, and how to chant a round of 108.