How to Chant Mantras Effectively

To compose the mind and enter samadhi, the chanting of mantras must be prolonged and low-pitched in tone; the pitch should not rise, nor should there be excessive melody, lest it stir emotional fluctuations within the heart, scatter mental focus, and make it difficult to still the mind. With insufficient concentration and a scattered mind, recitation becomes hard to remember. Before reciting, regulate the breath by taking several deep inhalations; then the mind becomes purified, allowing recitation to proceed with single-minded focus. With strong concentration, memory retention improves.