Returning to Shanti: Finding Peace Through Mantra

There is a quiet place within each of us, untouched by the busyness of daily life. In Sanskrit, this is called Shanti—a deep, steady peace that exists beneath our thoughts and experiences.

We often think of peace as something to achieve, something that comes once everything is finished or resolved or we’ve “worked on ourselves”. But what if peace isn’t something we need to create? What if it’s already here—simply waiting to be reconnected to?

This is where mantra becomes a powerful and accessible practice (and a sacred one too).

The Meaning of Shanti

Shanti is not just the absence of noise or stress. It is an inner stillness that remains even as life continues around us. It’s not about escaping the world, but meeting it from a place of steadiness and ease.

Traditionally, “Shanti” is repeated three times:

Shanti, Shanti, Shanti

This repetition is said to invite peace within ourselves, in our surroundings, and in the wider world. Whether or not we think of it this way, the sound and rhythm are naturally calming.

At the end of my yoga sessions, we always chant: Om shanti, shanti, shanti—a simple intention for peace in our thoughts, speech, and hearts.

Why Mantra Works

A mantra is a repeated sound or phrase that gently anchors the mind. In the ancient, sacred language of Sanskrit, they hold a healing energy or resonance that influences our whole being.

With repetition:

• The mind has something steady to focus on
• The breath naturally slows
• The body begins to soften

Rather than trying to stop thoughts, mantra redirects attention. In Sanskrit, the constant mental chatter is called vrittis. By returning to the mantra again and again, the mind gradually settles—not through force, but through gentle repetition.

Try this – A Simple Practice

You don’t need much time to begin. Sit comfortably with an upright but relaxed posture. Soften your gaze or close your eyes. Take a slow breath in, and a gentle breath out.

Then begin to repeat, silently or softly:

Om Shanti… Shanti… Shanti…(*)

Let the rhythm be natural. If your mind wanders, simply notice and return to the sound—without judgement.

After a few minutes, let the repetition fade and sit quietly. Notice any shift, however subtle.

Returning to Peace

This practice is simple, but powerful. There is nothing to achieve or perfect. Each repetition is an invitation to return to what is already present.

Life will still feel busy at times, and we may lose touch with that inner stillness. But the way back doesn’t need to be complicated. Sometimes, it begins with a single wound — repeated gently, with patience and intention: Shanti.

you may have noticed the (*) – in the Vedic tradition (the original Sanskrit mantras) the three shanti are linked and actually sound like this…shantish-shantish-shantihi. So separate shanti is fine – the Vedic has a different resonance.

Another lovely Peace chant is Lokah Samasta…if you click on that link it will take you to my free recordings…scroll down a little and you’ll see “A chant for Peace”. This is a sung version – enjoy.

If you’re curious to explore this more deeply, my upcoming retreat day (Saturday June 6th nr Ashburton, South Devon) will offer space to experience a variety of beautiful shanti mantras in a meditative and unhurried way—an opportunity to step out of the usual pace of life and reconnect with a sense of inner calm. 

When combined with yoga postures (asana), breathing practices (pranayama), mudra (healing gestures) and meditation, mantra is easily embodied and the deeper meanings experienced.  This will be a traditional retreat day, rooted in the Vedic teachings. Beginners and those with experience all welcomed. Further details can be found HERE.

Wishing you all peace…in your thoughts, speech and hearts.