Simple Mantras For Everyday Happiness

When we use mantras—sounds, words, and phrases that carry a certain kind of positive energy to them—we align ourselves with other similar energies to creating a sense of unity (especially when we use “om”). Mantras help attract positive energy and thoughts and can be used throughout the day when we need comfort, positivity, and hopefulness.
Though largely associated with Buddhism, and with Vedic Hinduism before that, mantras aren’t necessarily religious since sound can have incredible healing power for all people, regardless of religious or spiritual beliefs. Different mantras also each have different vibrations; om is considered the universal vibration and most important mantra, which is why it’s often chanted at the end of yoga classes.
Here are 11 mantras to keep in your back pocket for when you need a little vibrational therapy throughout the day.

Om

This is believed to be the sound of the universe and the original vibration of all life (birth, death, and re-birth). It is often repeated during yoga and meditation and helps to ease racing thoughts.

El Shaddai

This phrase means “God Almighty,” in Hebrew but can be chanted by anyone (some feel closer to God or the universe when using a phrase with “God”) during meditation and when sitting in thought. Using this mantra can help evoke a sense of calm throughout the day.

I change my thoughts, I change my world.

This mantra, adapted from Norman Vincent Peale’s famous quote, can be chanted at times of hopelessness, loneliness, or depression. It reminds us that we have the power to shift our perception and that we can be happier if we simply choose to be. Thus, we choose to attract happiness and optimism.

Hari om

This mantra, known to help purify the body and soul and remove obstacles in our path, is great to use when in need of a confidence boost, either while we’re working hard to achieve our goals or when we feel like we’re losing sight of them. It helps to feel more hopeful, centered, and happy.

Om shanti shanti shanti

Feeling out of whack, going through a hard time, or healing from something emotionally difficult? This mantra can help center and focus your mind, body, and spirit once again. Repeating “shanti” (“peace” in Pali, an Indian language) three times symbolizes mind, body, and spirit.

Om mani padme hum

According to Dharma Haven, Tibetan Buddhists believe this mantra “invokes the powerful benevolent attention and blessings of Chenrezig, the embodiment of compassion,” and Savana East reports, “Supposedly, contained in this verse is the truth of the nature of suffering and how to remove its root cause.” What’s interesting about this mantras is that it does not have a direct translation; instead, each syllable represents one of the six internal forces that cause suffering: ego, jealousy, desire, prejudice, possessiveness, and hatred. Thus, the mantra helps replace these feelings with those of generosity, ethics, patience, perseverance, concentration, and wisdom.

I am in complete control of determining my emotions.

This one from Power of Positivity is excellent to have on hand when feeling depressed or anxious. Though chronic, clinical depression and anxiety can sometimes require therapy or medication, this mantra provides a sense of strength and empowerment in knowing that we are ultimately in control, that our emotions don’t control us anymore.

Where I am right now is exactly where I need to be.

Looking for an easy English mantra to use while meditating, doing yoga, or just needing to feel more centered? Kara Benz of the blog Boho Berry lists this as one of the best modern meditation mantras around. It is meant to remind us that whatever situation we’re in, good or bad, we are right where we’re meant to be. If it’s a good place, we should experience it fully. If not, we’re remind that there is still an important lesson to be learned.

Let [your name] be [your name].

This mantra recommended by Sirena Bernal, a nutrition coach from Boston, reminds us to be ourselves and to give ourselves the space to grow and develop in our own time. We are free to err and forgive ourselves, allowing us to practice compassion and self-acceptance. Can’t seem to forgive yourself for a mistake? Chant this mantra, and draw loving energy. It’s okay, you’re human—make mistakes, learn, and grow into the beautiful person you are.

I allow my fears to speak so they might quickly fade away; I never take them into my heart.

This mantra from Breathe and Create is perfect for those moments when your mind races with “what if” thoughts. We all do this, but it’s known that one of the keys to happiness to remaining in the present. This mantra reminds us that the thoughts have no power over us. We allow them into our minds but should let them fade into thin air just as quickly and keep on going.

All I need comes to me when I need it.

This mantra helps settle the mind in trying times when we worry about not having enough. If you’re ever caught up in a situation where you think you are lacking in some way, reframing your perception to be more uplifting and hopeful will reassure you that everything will come to you at the right time. If a relationship didn’t work out, for example, and you feel lonely, know that the right person and real love will come.
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