When done correctly, it allegedly calms the mind and brings spiritual insight and knowledge. This mantra is associated with qualities of prayer, divine-love, grace, truth, and blissfulness. The guru whispers the mantra into the disciple’s right ear, along with instructions on how and when to chant it. This initiation is often part of a temple ritual, such as a puja, japa, homa (fire ceremony), dhyana or and while smearing vibhuti. Before this initiation which is called mantra diksha, the guru will usually require a period of study. It is freely sung and chanted by everyone, but it is most powerful when given by one's guru. Traditionally it is repeated 108 times a day while keeping count on a strand of rudraksha beads. This mantra is repeated verbally or mentally, drawing the mind in upon itself to Lord Shiva's infinite, all-pervasive presence. Traditional 108+1 Rudraksha mala used for chanting Om Namah Shivaya Mantra