Mantras may be used on their own or as part of a visualization practice. In a typical visualization practice there is a communication from the "deity" (spirit) to the practitioner (in the form of blessings, or rays of light, or even speech), and there is a communication from the practitioner to the deity(spirit), in the form of mantra.

Mantras can also be used as "mind protectors" while walking, doing the dishes, or even in sitting meditation.  Often, Buddhists will count the mantras they are chanting by telling beads on a "mala."(prayer beads). The physical action of counting round the mala helps to keep the mind focused. A mala usually has 108 beads, this number having a mystical significance in ancient India and the mala can be worn round the neck so that it can be accessed when needed. Some malas have 21 beads and are worn round the wrist, but the use of a mala is not essential.

Om~ a very simple chant with a very complex meaning. Often chanted three times or more at the start and finish of a yoga session, om is the whole universe coalesed into a single sound and represents the union of mind, body, and spirit that is at the heart of yoga. When chanted, the sound of om is actually three syllables - a, u, and m.

Nam~ comes from Sanskrit; it means "To Devote Oneself."

Myoho~ literally means "Mystic Law" and expresses the relationship between the life inherent in the universe and the many different ways this life expresses itself. Myo is "unseen" and "invisible." It signifies the aspects of the universe that are beyond our understanding; the parts of life we fail to grasp, but yet still exist.  It is constant reality. Ho is "seen" and "tangible." It is what we do and can understand; it signifies the aspects of the universe that are commonly understood. It is changing phenomena.  Together, Myoho means that phenomena exist and change inside of a consistent and unvarying thing we call reality.

Renge~ means "Lotus Flower." The Lotus Flower has always been a significant plant all over the world: this is no different in Buddhism. It signifies two things.  One is purity.  The Lotus Flower grows in swamps and bogs; places we call "disgusting" and yet it is one of the most beautiful flowers on earth, un-besmirched by the filth around it.  In Buddhism, this symbolizes the True Buddha Nature existing in all living things.  The second thing it signifies is Cause and Effect: this is because the flower blooms and makes seeds at the same time.  Cause and Effect happen at the time time; like this.  They are not detached from each-other.   The cause and the effect are one.

Kyo~ means "Sutra."  Sutras are the teachings of the Buddha. 

Om Shanti Shanti Shanti~ Om, Peace, Peace, Peace