Japa is one of the most widely practiced forms of Hindu devotion: a mantra or name of God is repeated with focused attention, typically 108 times per round counted on a japa mala. Tradition describes three modes — Vachika (spoken aloud), Upamshu (whispered), and Manasika (silent mental repetition, considered the most powerful). Common japa mantras include "Om Namah Shivaya," "Om Namo Narayanaya," and the Gayatri Mantra, often received from a guru at initiation (diksha). Japa is recommended especially during Brahma Muhurta (pre-dawn), and sustained daily practice is believed to steady the mind, purify mental impressions, and deepen devotion.