Well, in Sanskrit, man means mind, and tra, which is the root of the word, means instrument. So a mantra in an instrument of the mind. A mantra is a word, sound, or phrase that is repeated during meditation. It is highly important in Hinduism and Buddhism.

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While mantras have a religious significance, many use mantras as daily reminders and ways to stay focused and on track in everyday life. Mantras can be seen as personal slogans that reflect your inner beliefs, dreams, and how you want to live your life.

A mantra can be simple word, such as love, or it can be an entire phrase that is important to you, or something that you are thankful for.

When looking for a mantra it is important to find something pertinent in your life, something that will remind you what your goals are; it's a way of personal motivation. A mantra is a phrase to help you though your day. Finding your mantra is important because it is based on what you personally need that day. If you are feeling a lack of motivation, or distracted, or overwhelmed, a mantra is there to remind you that you are in control.

Some things to keep in mind when thinking about your mantra is that it belongs to you and only you, it is your mantra. You can completely make it up. It does not have to be some ancient Hindu word or deep Buddhist phrase for it to have merit, and for it to be useful and effective. You must also remember that a mantra is used to center yourself and return your mind to focus. So your mantra should not be something that will cause stress, or remind you of any failures.

I have found that using a mantra allows me to stay on track when I get frustrated or restricted by the work around me. It allows me to separate my mind and motivation from outside actions and occurrences that I cannot control.

Endurance and strength.

"This too shall pass."

Love.

"I am love."

Calmer mind.

"Smile, breathe, and go slowly."

Being present.

"Be here, now."

"I choose to live in the present and not hold the past against myself."

Allowing the universe to guide you.

"I am open to receiving universal gifts."

Happiness.

"Today I choose joy."

Release.

"Close your eyes, clear your heart, let it go."

"I recognize mistakes are positive and not negative. "

Empowerment.

"I are capable of wonderful things."

"Fear has no place in my life."

Creating perspective.

"My thoughts create my reality, and I only create the best for me."

Problem solving.

"Every perceived problem is actually an opportunity. Find the opportunity.