Tools for Embodiment: Mantra
One of our favorite ways to use mantra? Write it down on a post-it and place it somewhere that you will see often as a gentle reminder.
Embodied Exercise
While workouts alone can bring a host of benefits for mind and body, the practice of embodied exercise can up level any movement style to create mindful habits, carve new neural pathways, and help us show up the way we want to in the world. When we layer instruments of embodiment onto a workout or exercise routine, we create a practice of self care that can have lasting impact on our well being.
What is Mantra?
One such embodiment tool is mantra. A mantra is a word or phrase used in repetition to evoke a particular mental current or quality. The word mantra literally translates into, “an instrument of the mind.” When we bring the practice of mantra into a workout practice, we are asking the mind to participate—we are strengthening the connection between mind and body through movement.
Mantras for the Menstrual Cycle
Below are some of our favorite mantras to employ during workouts for each phase of the menstrual cycle. These mantras are meant to help you tune into your body throughout your cycle to become conscious of the subtle—and not-so-subtle—energetic shifts that are happening within. The greater awareness you can bring to what is happening inside your body, the better you can support its natural rhythms through movement and exercise.
Menstrual Phase
Let my body be moved.
A mantra for listening to what the body is calling for in a time of physical release.
Just one breath at a time.
A mantra for adapting movement to meet you where you are. You need only focus on one breath at a time.
Be the flow. Not the force.
A mantra for moving into flow without expectation + without judgement. Let your body just be.
Follicular Phase
I am embodied creative energy.
A mantra for igniting creative flow + clearing space for a new cycle.
In movement, I am liberated.
A mantra for shedding stagnation to awaken + invigorate the body.
Freedom is where my feet are.
A mantra for basking in the present through an awareness of the body in space—particularly at a time when elevated hormone levels may have us multi-tasking.
Ovulatory Phase
Let my mind not go where my body is not.
A mantra for mind-body connection to stay focused as we explore new + challenging movement patterns.
I am powerful beyond measure.
A mantra for tapping into our deep well of inner strength for growth + physical health.
I am a reflection of the cosmos.
A mantra for honoring our infinite cyclical nature + the expansion available through conscious awareness.
Luteal Phase
Easy breath, easy mind.
A mantra for employing the breath during movement to ease racing thoughts + anxiety.
Begin again. Again. Again.
A mantra that gives you permission to start over as often as needed to support body + mind.
I am here. Here is enough.
A mantra for acceptance + grace as you near the end of the cycle when showing up is more than enough.
How to Use Mantra
Begin each workout with one of the above or any mantra that is meaningful to you. Recite it in your mind or aloud with breath. Write it down on a post-it and place it somewhere that you will see often as a gentle reminder. Busy at work? Place a mantra somewhere on your desk for a dose of motivation that helps you stay embodied as you move through your daily activities.