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Benefits of Chanting*
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Psychological benefits |
Introversion (antarmukhata) and introspection** (atmaparikshan):
Introversion (focusing on the inner self or
thoughts) and introspection (analyzing the inner self or thoughts)
are both necessary for spiritual progress and the development of
positive qualities within oneself.
Chanting in the true sense, is not really
possible without becoming introverted. If one wishes to observe
whether chanting is going on in the mind, it is essential to become
introverted. The mind, which wanders due to its inherent tendency,
does not concentrate on chanting for long. Once this is realized,
the mind has to be brought back to chanting. In this very process of
refocusing the mind on chanting one becomes aware of the thoughts or
defects, which prompted the mind to wander. This itself is
introspection.
[Reference taken from
the Sanatan's
publication, Volume
6: Path of Chanting The Lord's Name (Namasankirtanyoga) and Path of Mantra (Mantrayoga), compiled by H.
H. Dr. Jayant B. Athavale and Dr. (Mrs.) Kunda Athavale.]
(To be continued)
* The Lord's Name as per one's religion.
** Refer to Issue 70,
Clarification of Doubts on introspection, and Issue 104
and 110, Practical
Guidance on the importance of introspection
Practical Application
The above explanation is yet another pointer to
the importance of chanting, which facilitates the development of
introversion and introspection. Hence, the seeker should make
conscious and continual efforts to bring the wandering mind back to
chanting, with the assurance that persevering thus will lead to deep
chanting and development of divine qualities.
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