Meditation support tools

While the ultimate goal of meditation may be to reach a state of full consciousness without the need for external aids, certain tools such as mantras and mobile applications can serve as supports in the practice, especially for those who are new to meditation or seeking to vary their methods.

However, a conscious and cautious use of these tools is recommended.

Mantras as a Focus of Concentration

A mantra is a word, phrase or sound that is repeated, either mentally or aloud, in order to focus the mind and facilitate concentration during meditation.

They can be used to calm the flow of thoughts and as an anchor for attention, helping to prevent the mind from wandering excessively.

Although some traditions offer specific mantras, sometimes even in exchange for financial compensation (a practice we suggest you view with skepticism), it is perfectly possible to create a personal mantra or use simple words or numbers.

For example, you can choose a word from a book at random or simply count from one to one hundred repetitively.

It is not the mantra itself that is essential. But its function as a tool to focus the attention and quiet the mind.

Meditation and Productivity Applications

In the digital age, numerous apps designed to guide meditation, improve concentration and increase productivity have proliferated.

These apps may offer guided meditations, timers, relaxing sounds or mindfulness exercises.

While they can be useful, especially for beginners or those seeking variety, it is important to consider that reliance on technology to meditate may limit the development of the ability to find calm and focus on one's own, without outside assistance.

Conscious Use and Development of Autonomy

Both mantras and applications should be considered support tools, not ends in themselves.

The goal of meditative practice, in many traditions, is to develop the ability to be present and aware without relying on external stimuli or guidance.

It is advisable to experiment with these tools, but also to practice meditation without technological assistance to cultivate an inner ability of self-regulation and presence.

The goal is to be able to access a state of calm and awareness anytime, anywhere, regardless of whether you have a specific mantra or an app on your phone.

True mastery in meditation lies in the ability to find the inner "still point" autonomously.