How to Recite Mantras Effectively

In order to gather the mind into meditative concentration (samādhi), when reciting mantras the tone must be drawn out long and low; the pitch should not rise, and there should not be too much melody, lest it stir up emotional fluctuations in the mind, causing the thoughts to become scattered and difficult to still. If one's power of concentration is poor and the mind is scattered, it will be hard to memorize what one recites. Before reciting, one should adjust the breathing—take several deep breaths so that the mind can settle into purity—then one can recite with full concentration. When the power of concentration is good, the effect on memory is also good.