How important is rhythm when performing meditation?
I d/l an MP3 of a taraka meditation (I believe that's what it is):

Om Sri Rama Jaya Rama Jaya Jaya Rama

Listening to the MP3, and trying to duplicate it exactly is frustrating...How important is repeating the mantra in the exact rhythm and speed. I've read on-line that it's very important, and you will not benefit from meditating if you do not repeat it properly.

Thanks,

You will hear lots of people saying different things about mantra meditation. I have not heard that you need to have an exact rhythm to the mantra, in fact I've heard the opposite, that you can vary the speed of the mantra to suit your individual needs. I would say the intention of the mantra is most important, with the correct pronunciation a close second.

You will hear lots of people saying different things about mantra meditation. I have not heard that you need to have an exact rhythm to the mantra, in fact I've heard the opposite, that you can vary the speed of the mantra to suit your individual needs. I would say the intention of the mantra is most important, with the correct pronunciation a close second.

The beauty of a Mantra is that it corrects it self over time (pronunciation).The important thing is to say it.
Next a rhythm helps the way music creates a certain atmosphere, (sound therapy),but what is important is you start saying the mantra aloud, the next step in your mind & finally you are saying it unconsciously: Meditation.
And if you want to go to another deeper level ,merge it with your breathing sequence.Its a lot like when we do bone breathing in Face Yoga at Aiyana Wellness workshop's, We visualize the vital energy, in this case mantra.

minal potnis

Post edited by: yogitim, at: 2010/07/30 08:20

I agree with all the points made. I would add that, for me, what's most important is the actual mantra. What you choose (again, for me) dictates the level of inner peace, tranquility and bliss or nervana you can feel. So, while rhythm, breath and focus are all vital components, the actual mantra is the core element of powerful meditation.