Mantras & the Mind: The Neurological Power of Repetitive Words in Yoga

In the words of Muva Beyonce', "let me upgrade ya"

Hey yogi,

You know when you get something stuck circling in your head, it becomes all you can think about, you replay the story, you make up the next step and it stays there until you find a distraction to stop you from ruminating? 

Yeah, let’s work on circling something positive, uplifting, manifesting and affirming so THAT can circle the mind and bring us a light feeling of joy! 

In the world of yoga and meditation, mantras have long been regarded as sacred, transformative tools traditionally used to anchor the mind and cultivate spiritual focus. Mantras are repeated words or phrases. Modern neuroscience is now catching up with what yogis have known for centuries: repetitive, positive self-talk and mantras can rewire the brain, reduce stress, and boost well-being.

Let’s explore how and why this works—and how you can experiment with this powerful tool yourself.

Mantras and the Brain’s Default Mode Network (DMN)

A groundbreaking study published in Brain and Behavior (2015) showed that silently repeating a single word or phrase (like a mantra) quiets the brain’s default mode network, the area associated with mind-wandering, self-referential thoughts, and stress-related rumination.

When this network is dialed down, the brain becomes more focused, calm, and present—key outcomes sought in both yoga and meditation.

Self-Affirmation Activates Reward Centers

Researchers from the University of Southern California found that positive affirmations activate the brain's ventromedial prefrontal cortex, a region associated with self-related processing and reward.

This means that simply affirming something positive about yourself (“I am grounded,” “I am capable,” “I am enough”) can literally light up your brain’s reward center and help buffer stress.

Reduced Cortisol and Increased Self-Regulation

In a randomized controlled trial, researchers at Carnegie Mellon University found that self-affirmation exercises reduced cortisol levels, the body’s primary stress hormone, especially in high-pressure environments.

When you combine mantra (words) with breath (pranayama) or movement (asana), you're reinforcing positive neural pathways through embodied cognition—a concept where physical experiences deepen mental and emotional learning.

Your mind believes what you tell it—especially when those words are repeated with intention. When you practice on a Hey Yogi mat, by seeing the constant mindfulness reminder at your fingertips while simply breathing consciously, you’re not just calming your thoughts—you’re literally restructuring your brain toward peace, presence, and positivity.

In a world filled with noise, your mantra can be your medicine.

So the next time you're on your mat, remember—your mantra isn't just a word.

Serene Green | Safe Place of Peace

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Sources:

• Berkovich-Ohana et al. (2015) – Brain and Behavior

• Falk et al. (2015) – Social Cognitive and Affective Neuroscience

• Creswell et al. (2013) – PLoS ONE