Ram mantra: Shri Ram Jai Ram Jai Jai Ram and Rama Rameti

Meaning: "Shri Rama — victory to Rama, victory, victory to Rama." Thirteen syllables of praise, chanted in kirtan and on the mala alike.

When it is chanted: Any time; above all on Ram Navami.

Meaning: "Saying 'Rama, Rama, Rama', I delight in Rama, the delight of the mind. Rama's name equals the thousand names, O lovely-faced one." Shiva's words to Parvati at the close of the Vishnu Sahasranama.

When it is chanted: Recited three times, traditionally in place of the full Vishnu Sahasranama when time is short.

Meaning: "Om, salutation to Shri Rama."

When it is chanted: Daily japa, 108 times on a mala.

1. Keep to one mantra; changing mantras every few days is the commonest way a practice fades.
2. Sit at the same time each day, after a bath if you can, facing east or north.
3. Chant on a mala of 108 beads — one mala is the customary measure — and turn the mala at the larger meru bead rather than crossing it.
4. Say the words clearly, at a pace you can keep; attention matters more than speed.
5. The traditional time for Rama is Ram Navami; any day is fine for a daily practice.

Mantra practice belongs to a tradition of devotion and reflection. It is not a substitute for medical, legal or financial help, and no mantra comes with a promised result.

The traditional list of Rama's 108 names, each with its transliteration and meaning, numbered as it is recited.