The Mantram Run

The mantram is a holy name or short spiritual verse that is repeated internally and is found in all spiritual traditions. Although it is most commonly thought of as an eastern tradition it is a wide spread practice and has been used by great christian mystics such as St. Francis of Assisi, St John of the Cross and St. Teresa of Avila. It is the means and practice (as stated by "Pray without ceasing."—1 Thessalonians 5:17)  -that draws God close in time of need and offers comfort, and as way to stay constant in the breath of spirit.
I was first introduced to using a mantram as a daily practice by Eknath Easwaran in his beautiful book Meditation (now titled Passage Meditation)and it has remained with me a source of comfort and inspiration ever since. Repeated in times of stress it brings an ease of tension,in times of joy it's a celebration to the source of life and inspiration. Spare moments waiting in line, walking and running are all perfect opportunities to offer the time to God, Spirit, the Tao, the Universe (Gaia) or our own highest self - the Source is indeed all One.
Running to me is about using the body as an instrument to surpass thought and form and to move into a higher realm. Sometimes it happens and sometimes not - but the mantram is a great tool to allow ourselves to get out of our own way, surrendering to spirit and letting the run become within us, as well as motion against the path. In it's purest expression a mantram run is the holy name come to motion and nothing more. And failing this transcendental moment it's a tool to help cope with the stress of the run and any thoughts that may impede the joy of my favorite activity.
The mantram is a simple means of adding constant prayer - nothing more complicated than repeating (silent...within) a holy name or short prayer that has stood the test of time for it's profound ability to bring lasting change. Gandhi repeated "Rama, Rama" to transform himself from a shy young lawyer into the great Mahatma. Jesus, Hail Mary, Om Mani Padme Hum, Allah, Ribono shel olam - all holy names and expression passed down form great sages,and seers the world over. Once the mantram has been chosen - keep it - don't change it on a whim. It's important to allow the name to sink deep within and become a theme played to spirit by spirit. This is also why it's so important to choose a mantram that has withstood the test of time. Choosing a word such as peace, love, joy will not have the same effect of the holy name that has gathered energy through repetition from the lips of spiritual giants and those they've inspired. Here is a list from Eknath Easwaran website, providing help in choosing a mantram.
http://www.easwaran.org/mantrams-recommended-by-easwaran.html

But most importantly of all - give yourself to the mantram and allow it to work within - running, walking, waiting - all perfect opportunities to invoke our highest self to become again a presence in our daily lives.
Try it.