If you have never been to a Kundalini Yoga class, you might be caught off guard by the mantras that most of the class seems to know. Mantras are a very important part of Kundalini yoga practice, and there are quite a few of them. Here are some of the most common mantras, and their meanings and applications.

“Sat Nam”

The mantra “Sat Nam” roughly translates to “true name” or “truth is my identity.” Sat Nam is one of the most commonly used mantras of them all and is used in many applications. The mantra is said so that the speaker can tune into the idea of interconnectedness between all beings, or recognize the mutual divine identity between two or more people.

“Ong Namo Guru Dev Namo”

This is a mantra to say before you begin your practice and is repeated before the start of any Kundalini Yoga class. Roughly translating to “I call upon Divine Wisdom,” this mantra is to be chanted to tune you into the energy of the masters of Kundalini Yoga that were here before us. It also puts you in tune with your higher self and the divine flow, preparing you for your Kundalini Yoga class.

“Wahe Guru”

This mantra is an expression of ecstasy to acknowledge going from darkness to light, or the experience of the Divine, indescribable wisdom.

“Ad Guray Nameh”

The “Ad Guray Nameh” mantra is one that is meant to clear the speaker from any doubts or uncertainties. It opens the speaker up to the guidance and protection of the universe.

“Ra Ma Da Sa Sa Say So Hung”

Translating to “Sun, Moon, Earth, Impersonal Infinity, the Totality of Infinity, Personal Infinity, and the vibrating and real infinite”, this is a mantra that helps the speaker balance the self within the universe. It taps into the infinite power of the universe to heal and balance the speaker, and can also project these qualities onto others.

“Sa Re Sa Sa”

This is a longer mantra, the entire form of which translates to “The Infinite Totality is here and everywhere; The creativity of God is here and everywhere.” This is a mantra to oppose adversity and challenge, driving negativity out of oneself and awakening the speaker to the Infinite, allowing them to charge through obstacles that prevent them from reaching higher levels of consciousness.

Mantras are used for many purposes and are incorporated into most Kundalini and traditional Yoga classes. Our Music and Mantra class, which is held Fridays at 7:30 pm at the RYK Yoga Center at 8450 W. Sahara Ave. Suite 109 in Las Vegas, Nevada, heavily features traditional yogic mantras set to beautiful music. You can use mantras to help enhance your practice, starting with these common phrases!