A fruitful way to begin is to approach the Divine Mother with clear intention and a gradual, reverent attitude. One may first study the basic vision of Shakti as the supreme reality and the unity of Shakti–Shiva, using accessible portions of texts such as the Devi Mahatmya and the Devi Bhagavata Purana, as well as reliable modern introductions. As understanding deepens, it is helpful to recognize the many forms through which Shakti is adored—Durga, Kali, Lakshmi, Saraswati, Lalita Tripurasundari—and to sense which form naturally evokes devotion. Choosing one form as a primary focus does not exclude others; it simply stabilizes the heart and mind in relationship with a particular manifestation of the Mother.

From this foundation, a simple home altar can become the center of daily practice. A clean, quiet space with an image or murti of the chosen form of Devi, a cloth, a lamp or candle, perhaps incense, flowers, water, or fruit, can be treated as a living presence rather than mere decoration. Before this altar, a short daily worship may be offered: lighting the lamp, bowing inwardly, offering simple items, reciting a brief prayer or hymn, and then resting in silence with a sense of gratitude. Even a modest “puja-lite” of a few minutes, done consistently, begins to cultivate an intimate relationship with the Divine Mother.

Mantra recitation and meditation naturally grow from this devotional center. Beginners often turn to widely used mantras such as “Om Shakti Om” or “Om Aim Hrim Klim Chamundayai Vicche,” as well as simple invocations like “Om Dum Durgayai Namah,” “Om Kreem Kalikayai Namah,” “Om Shreem Mahalakshmyai Namah,” or “Om Aim Saraswatyai Namah,” repeating them a small, steady number of times each day. Hymns such as the “Ya Devi Sarvabhuteshu” verses or the Mahishasura Mardini Stotram can also be recited, even in part. After chanting, sitting quietly and contemplating the Mother as the power of consciousness in body, breath, thought, and in all beings, allows devotion to mature into a sense of all-pervading Shakti.

Over time, this inner orientation can permeate daily life. Work, relationships, and challenges may be regarded as expressions of the Mother’s play, with actions mentally offered to Her. Ethical qualities such as compassion, non-harm, respect toward women and all beings, responsibility, courage, and truthfulness can then be understood as ways in which Her power manifests through human conduct. Observing special days—such as Navaratri, Fridays, and significant lunar days—with a little extra chanting, reading of Devi stories, or quiet reflection further deepens this orientation. When the heart feels ready, guidance from temples, experienced devotees, or a qualified guru and lineage may be sought, especially for more advanced mantras and tantric practices, always with discernment and a preference for teachings that emphasize inner transformation and genuine freedom.