Mantra based mediation is the use of sound to go beyond the distractions of the mind and open one to the relaxation and peace of the meditative state.  There’s a lot of disagreement about which mantras one should use.  When you search the internet you will find a wealth of different mantras and directions for their use. What does seem to be in agreement is that certain sounds possess a vibrational quality that has positive effects on the human psyche.  

Probably the best known of the mantras is OM or the Sanskrit word for the sound of the universe.  Some of the on-line meditation authorities think that you need to focus on the meaning of the mantra as you chant it and others say that the sound vibration itself is all that is necessary.  Online you will find a number of other  Sanskrit mantras.  If you are confused about how to pronounce the Sanskrit you will find both phonetic pronunciations and downloads of the chanting. Of course, you can chant in English.  For example you can breathe in as you say I AM and breathe out as you say AT PEACE.  You can chant a simple word like God or Love. 

Breathing and a focus of calming and peace are a continual thread throughout all the information about mantra meditation.  Some reasons for doing a mantra meditation include simple relaxation, using sound as a healing vibration, spiritual enlightenment and as a spiritual or mental discipline.  

Whatever your reason, you will need to carve out some time that is just for you.   Make sure you shut off the phones or turn down the ringer and ask others to give you this time and space free from interruption.  Wear comfortable clothes.  Take some deep breaths.  If you do yoga, you might also want to do some stretching and breathing as this will begin to relax the body.  For your sitting and chanting find a comfortable position.  Let the chanting follow your breath.  You might want to chant for a minimum of 10 minutes and some meditation experts recommend that you chant for up to 60 minutes.