The scriptures say mantras allow you to go beyond the mind. They are sound vibrations that have an effect on the consciousness, the space around you, and your mind. Vibrations are sent out by chanting mantras and these affect our brain patterns.

Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar explains, “When we chant mantras loudly and together in a group, it is called kirtan (or bhajan where bhaj means to share—sharing the one consciousness). When we recite in a normal or medium tone of voice, then it is called chanting. And when you recite quietly or very slowly in the mind, then that is called Japa.”