Effects of Chanting Lalitasahasranama & Khadagmala Stotram

I have been practising Khadagmala Stotra & Lalitasahsranama chantings for over 5 years regularly and the disciplined practise has brought many changes which I wish to share using this write up with all of you.

The practice of chanting the Lalita Sahasranama, a revered text in Hindu tradition comprising a thousand names of the Divine Mother Lalita, is believed to have profound effects on both the physical and subtle bodies. This ancient scripture is not only a form of devotion but also a powerful tool for spiritual and personal transformation.

The Khadagmala Stotra is another hymn sung in praise of the Divine Mother.

The KS takes us mentally through the Sri Chakra; i.e. the mystical geometric representation of the Transcendental Supreme Goddess. This Yantra consists of nine enclosures – each more secret and esoteric than the one before it – surrounding a central point, or Bindu, in which Devi, the Supreme Goddess (here in Her erotic form as Kameshwari) is joined in coitus with her consort i.e., Siva in His erotic form as Kameshwara

It has 15 variant versions one for each phase of the moon. The Sword bestowed upon those who recite the KS symbolizes the power (Energy) that enables us to transcend attachment, facilitating Self-Realization and leading us to the four principal aims of life – namely, dharma, artha, kaama, and moksha. As Sri Amritananda Natha explains, “the Sword metaphorically severs the head, separating the body from the mind. It can be interpreted also as Wisdom – that which separates, categorizes, and classifies. So it is a symbol of Knowledge. Khadgamala is about imagining a garland of synergistic ideas, nourishing and protecting them and putting life into them.”

Because it condenses a long series of complicated rituals into a very simple, easily achievable recitation/meditation that anyone can learn and hugely benefit from. The full puja (formal worship) of the Devis of the Sri Chakra takes hours because for each of them we pause and do a detailed “sub-puja.” Hence the sages of yore created this KS as an alternative, “short-form” recitation more suitable for the demands and time constrictions of modern-day life.

Even those who have not been initiated into Srividya can benefit greatly from the Khadgamala. Stotrams are one tool of Srividya Upasana that is open to all categories of people. It does not have ritualistic injunctions of dos and don’ts. Once a day practice is ideal – if possible, at the same time and same place. The preferable time is at night, just before going to sleep, as the practice will continue working on your resting mind.

It clears your doubts and fears, removes your psychic baggage, and prepares your mind and spirit for dramatic spiritual advancement. “It fulfills all wishes, more than you desire, instantly,” adds Sri Amritananda. “Therein lays its power. Regular practice protects you, nourishes you, and takes you beyond.”

Read this blog for in depth understanding.

Here’s an exploration of its multifaceted benefits with these chantings:

Effects on the Physical Body

1. Reduction in Stress and Anxiety:
   • How: Chanting involves rhythmic repetition and deep, focused breathing. This can induce a state of relaxation and calm.
   • Why: The rhythmic nature of chanting, combined with controlled breathing, activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress hormones like cortisol.
2. Enhanced Respiratory Health:
   • How: The chanting process involves deep inhalations and prolonged exhalations.
   • Why: This practice increases lung capacity, improves oxygenation of the blood, and strengthens respiratory muscles.
3. Improved Concentration and Memory:
   • How: The repetition of complex verses requires focus and memorization.
   • Why: This mental exercise enhances cognitive functions, improving attention span and memory retention over time.
4. Physical Detoxification:
   • How: The vibrations generated during chanting resonate through the body.
   • Why: These vibrations can stimulate various glands and organs, promoting the release of toxins and enhancing overall bodily functions.

Effects on the Subtle Body

1. Balancing of Chakras:
   • How: Each name in the Lalita Sahasranama corresponds to different aspects of divine energy, resonating with specific chakras.
   • Why: Chanting can help unblock and balance the chakras, facilitating the smooth flow of prana (life energy) through the subtle body, leading to greater emotional and spiritual well-being.
2. Aura Cleansing:
   • How: The sacred vibrations and divine names purify the energy field around the body.
   • Why: A cleansed aura can protect against negative influences and enhance personal magnetism and charisma.
3. Heightened Spiritual Awareness:
   • How: Regular recitation fosters a deeper connection with the Divine Mother.
   • Why: This connection can lead to profound inner peace, heightened intuition, and a greater sense of purpose in life.
4. Emotional Healing:
   • How: The repetitive and devotional aspects of chanting can evoke powerful emotions.
   • Why: This process allows for the release and healing of suppressed emotions, leading to emotional balance and resilience.