The "Just Like Me" Mantra

In the wake of more tragedies in current events, I offer you this mantra. When you are frustrated with another person, or group of people, remember: they are just like you.

Just like you, each person wants to live. The same motivations drive us. We breathe the same breath, drink the same water, walk the same Earth. We are all connected, literally and figuratively.

This is how we practice Yoga off of our mat. We stop, observe, and choose our next action with integrity and compassion.

The “Just Like Me” Mantra[i]

(When saying the words, focus on the individual you are frustrated with.)

Just like me, you are seeking some happiness in your life.

Just like me, you are trying to avoid suffering in your life.

Just like me, you have known sadness.

Just like me, you want to be loved.

Just like me, you were once an innocent child.

Just like me, you are a spirit on a journey.

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[i] Source: http://www.thesacredscience.com/blog1/an-ancient-prayer-for-compassion-in-any-situation

Universal Prayer

On this beautiful rainy morning, I felt compelled to share with you a mantra that was given to me by one of my favorite teachers, Gauri Johnson. This translation is from Valerie’dra Naiman. This is the Universal Prayer, a prayer for all beings. It is all-purpose and it lifts me up every single time I sing it.

If you'd like to learn this mantra, how the words are pronounced and how to sing it, come to class! My Tuesday 7:45p class, Meditative Yoga, includes mantra and chanting.

May it bring peace to your heart.

Many blessings,
Janara

Om

Sarve bhavantu sukhinaḥ

May all the people of the world be in joy

Sarve santu nirāmayāḥ

May all be healthy and live in peace

Sarve bhadrāṇi paśyantu

May we see all creatures as equals

Mā kashchit duḥkha bhāgbhavet

May all be free from sorrow

Oṁ Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ, Shāntiḥ

Peace, peace, peace

Om, Om, Om