Reciting mantras is a practice in spirituality that involves meditating on a mantra or the name of a higher power. Mantras are formed of phrases or prayers that can be whispered softly enough for practitioners to hear them and have an effect on the human system. Aspirants from all faiths, including Hindus, Muslims, Jews, and Christians, recite mantras as a potent method of mind control. The frequency of such mantras is particularly powerful in causing a profound transformation in an individual's mindset and attitude. It also aids in concentrating one's efforts in order to develop a peaceful inner state. Bead threads are used to count the number of times the mantras or prayers are repeated.

Mantras are composed of a variety of components.  On a bead mala, which is frequently constructed of holy Rudraksha or tulsi beads, mantras are spoken.