Lokah Samastah Sukino Bhavantu/ May All Beings Be Happy and Free!

Longer Translation:

May all beings everywhere be happy and free, and may the thoughts, words, and actions of my own life contribute in some way to that happiness and to that freedom for all.

My Experience with the Mantra:

You might not be able to tell, but I am singing this as I write. This beautiful mantra has been stuck in my head for nearly a month now and I don’t mind at all. It’s a lovely phrase to live by. There have been a couple of times that I have been in a tough place emotionally (I’ll spare you the intimate details) and when this mantra came back into my mind, it softened my feelings a bit. I’m not saying I was cured, but it helped me find perspective and a little more love to apply to the situation.

On New Year’s Day, I went to a kirtan/restorative class (what could be better) and we sang this mantra at the end of the session. Everyone was so calm and so centered, the mantra just flowed through us, joining our hearts into one beautiful song. I was honestly close to tears and others’ cheeks were streaked with that liquid love. There’s such a sense of community and unity when a large group is singing together. It’s really moving. It’s hard to step back into the regular world untouched by such a moment or mantra, which is probably a good thing.

How you can use the mantra:

Within you: Perhaps as a meditation or just in a spare moment, try to embody selflessly wanting happiness and freedom for all. Not just the ones you love or agree with (of course them too), but really, truly, share with all. All includes you as well so let happiness and freedom shine on you. Imagine sharing that happiness and freedom with those who need it most. Imagine others also spreading joy and freedom; know you are not alone. Feel the happiness and freedom for yourself and let those feelings emanate from you.

Interacting with others in our world: As you move through your day, see if you can spread a little happiness or a little extra love. It could be as simple as sharing your smile with someone. Or trying to see a situation from someone else's point of view. Even in your thoughts, you can wish someone well and maybe they will feel your positivity.

Sing it! Singing has a calming effect because you are exhaling more than you are inhaling. It allows you to release tension, fear, anger, and sadness along with your breath. Chanting mantra is also a form of meditation. It allows you to focus your mind on the mantra rather than your troubles, worries or to-do list even if it's only for a moment. You can sing along silently if you feel uncomfortable singing. You will still receive the benefits of focusing in and the positive energy of the mantra. Allow yourself the freedom to enjoy the mantra.

Video in case you want to sing along:

I haven't been able to find a video of the song that reflects the version that we sang at kirtan that day, but at the moment, I'm also fairly obsessed with the version in this video. If you're as taken with it as I am and you want to integrate the mantra into every aspect of your being, you'll be singing along by the end.

I also designed this shirt and mug for days when I want an extra reminder of the mantra. Click through if you might want one too!

Lokah Samastah Sukino Bhavantu Mantra chant

Longer Translation:

My Experience with the Mantra:

How you can use the mantra:

Katia Yoga

Lokah Samastah Sukino Bhavantu Mantra chant

Longer Translation:

My Experience with the Mantra:

How you can use the mantra:

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