In the tradition of Ashtanga Yoga, chanting the opening and closing mantras is an essential ritual that sets the tone for the practice. These ancient Sanskrit verses honor the lineage of teachers, offer gratitude, and invoke a sense of peace and harmony. If you’ve ever wondered about their meanings or pronunciation, this guide will help you connect more deeply to the significance behind these mantras.
The Opening Mantra
Chanted at the beginning of the practice, the opening mantra pays homage to the lineage of teachers and the wisdom they’ve passed down. It also invokes protection, clarity, and healing.
Here is the meaning of the mantras which we chant at the beginning and end of the Ashtanga practice.
•Vande Gurunam Charanaravinde
I bow to the lotus feet of the Guru, the lineage and all the masters that have kept the traditions alive.
•Sandarashita Svatma Sukhavabodhe
The awakening bliss of one’s own Self revealed.
•Nishreyase Jangalikaya Mane
The practice acting like a jungle Medicine Man.
•Samsara Halahala Mohashantyai
Pacifying delusion, the poison of Samsara (cycle of death and rebirth).
•Abahu Purushakaram
Taking the form of man and serpent.
•Shanka Chakrasi Dharinam
Wearing a conch (symbolising divine sound), a wheel (symbolising infinite time) and a sword (symbolising discrimination or cutting through confusion).
•Sahasra Shirasam Svetam
With 1000 snow-white snake heads.
•Pranamami Patanjalim
I bow down to Patanjali.
The Closing Mantra
The closing mantra is chanted at the end of the practice to seal the energy of the session. It expresses wishes for universal well-being, peace, and freedom for all beings.
•Swasti Prajabyah Paripalayantam
May all be well with mankind.
•Nyayena Margena Mahim Mahisaha
May the leaders of the Earth protect it by keeping on the right path.
•Gobhramanebhyah Subamastu Nityam
May there be goodness for those who know the Earth to be sacred.
•Lokah Samastah Sukhino Bhavantu
May all beings be happy and free; May my thoughts, words and actions contribute to this happiness and freedom.
•Om shanti shanti shantihi
May we find Cosmic peace, Planetary peace and Inner peace.
Learn the Pronunciation
To memorize the mantras and get familiar with the pronunciation, it’s helpful to listen and follow along with someone experienced. Check out this YouTube video to learn the Ashtanga opening and closing mantras with us.
By understanding the meaning of these mantras and practicing them with intention, you can deepen your connection to the spiritual and transformative aspects of Ashtanga Yoga. Chanting them before and after practice creates a sacred container, grounding you in gratitude and inspiring peace within and around you.
