The use of Mantras adds a whole new dimension to your yoga practice whether it be simply chanting the Surya or Beeja mantras as you practice the series Surya Namasakara or if you spend some time chanting the Mahamrityunjaya mantra or the Gayatri mantra as part of your home practice.
Both of these mantras like all mantras have a powerful effect on the body and mind by connecting you to higher vibration, with the mind and body becoming filled with something that is positive and uplifting.
The continued repetition of the mantras (or just listening to these vibrations) can cause changes within the chanter or even to the environment. Some of the immediate changes include relaxation as the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems are brought into balance. Other potential benefits include improvements in the voice and lifetime changes like attaining self-realization.
According to Swami Niranjananda “mantra is the force that liberates the mind from bondage”
Many people get caught up in trying to understand the literal meaning of mantras and whilst it is pleasant to know the translation of the mantra it is not essential for the mantra to have its effect. For it is the vibration that counts. These ancient Vedic sounds resound within the body and the external environment, uplifting both energy levels and thought patterns.
To hear the Gayatri Mantra go to http://www.satyananda.net/prasad and go to audio then Gayatri Mantra
(try listening to this without knowing what the words mean first!!!!….then if you must know check out the next post!)
for more on Mantra……
Beechworth Yoga 
Good writing Kas, and good to know, James x
Thanks James….hope you enjoyed the link to the Gayatri Mantra…really beautiful