The Sound of the Universe
In yoga and meditation, chanting Om serves as a powerful tool to quiet the mind, center the spirit, and connect with the eternal.
The Sacred Sound of Om
Om, or Aum (ॐ)
A sacred sound and spiritual symbol roots from Ancient Indian traditions. Often referred to as the "primordial sound," it is believed to be the original vibration from which the entire universe formed—serving as a bridge connecting the physical and spiritual realms.
When we chant Om, we connect with an ancient vibration that yogis believe flows through all forces of life. This practice helps break down the barriers between mind, body, and soul, creating a sense of wholeness within. Practioners also aim to disolve barriers between, themselves, nature and the divine (highest self). Through the vibrations of Om, we can access deeper states of awareness and understanding, moving beyond the limitations of the physical world as we know it.
Breath
& Energy
In yoga and meditation, the breath (prana) is considered the life force that connects body and mind. Chanting Om complements breathwork practices like Pranayama, as it slows the breath and synchronises it with the rhythmic vibrations of the chant. As the prolonged sounds of "Aaa-Uuu-Mmm" resonates through the body, the vibrations help to cleanse blocked energy pathways, balancing the chakras once again.
Focus
& Presence
Om serves as a tool to quiet the busy mind, like an anchor pulling awareness away from scattered thoughts and centring it in the present moment. Not only does it reduce distractions, of inner thoughts and our surroundings, it provides a point of concentration making it easier to slip into a deeper, mediative state.
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The Psychological Impact
On a psychological level, chanting Aum creates a transformative effect on the mind and nervous system. When practiced regularly, it activates the parasympathetic nervous system - our body's natural "rest and digest" mode - setting off a cascade of relaxation responses throughout our body. This activation helps to significantly reduce stress hormones, ease anxiety, and quiet the constant stream of mental chatter that often occupies our thoughts.
The resonant quality of Aum, when voiced with intention and awareness, produces gentle vibrations that can be deeply soothing to both body and mind, creating an environment where practitioners can naturally release accumulated tension, let go of deeply held negative emotions and gradually break free from limiting thought patterns that may have been present for years. This process opens the door to experiencing profound states of stillness, mental clarity, and inner peace.
Aum serves as a powerful tool for quieting the ego and facilitating genuine self-realisation. Through this practice, we develop the ability to observe and gradually detach from the constant fluctuations of mental activity, moving beyond surface-level consciousness into deeper states of awareness.
This doesn't usually happen immediately, but rather unfolds gradually as one continues the practice. Eventually, enabling practitioners to access expanded states of consciousness and experience profound moments of spiritual insight.
Allowing us to touch the depths of our true nature and experience the vastness of our potential. (Connecting with our higher self)...
A - U - M symbolises the
3 states of consciousness
A (अ)
Awake State (Jagrat)
The sound "Aaa" represents the creation aspect of the universe. Where the physical world and external reality are perceived. It is linked to the physical body and the material world.
U (उ)
Dream State (Swapna)
The sound "Uuu" symbolises the continuous flow of life and preservation, the maintenance of the universe. Where the mind experiences the subconscious and the interplay of thoughts and emotions, this sound is associated with the internal world and the spiritual journey.
M (म)
Deep Sleep (Sushupti)
The sound "Mmm" corresponds to the aspect of dissolution or transformation. Where the individual experiences a state of pure consciousness without any external or internal distractions. It signifies the dissolution of the ego and the realisation of oneness with the infinite.
How to Start with Om
Tip: The Aaa and the Uuu sound should be held for the same length of time. The Mmm sound should be held for double.
e.g. Aaa (4) Uuu (4) Mmm (8)
Begin by...
1. Finding Your Space: Choose a quiet space where you can sit on the floor comfortably with your legs crossed. Place your hands on your knees meet the middle finger and thumb together to form a circular shape.
2. Focus on the Breath: Close your eyes and begin with a few deep breaths in through your nose and out through the nose to centre yourself.
3. Chant Slowly: Take a deep breath in, on the exhale chant "Aaa-Uuu-Mmm," feeling the vibration resonate through your body.
4. End with Stillness: After chanting, sit in silence to absorb the calm and clarity Om brings.
The Post Om Silence
At a deeper, mystical level, after chanting Aum, the silence that follows is said to be just as significant as the sound itself. This silence symbolises the infinite, unmanifested potential that lies beyond all creation. It represents the state of pure consciousness, where there are no distinctions, no dualities—only the experience of pure being.
The Pathway to
Awakening
Infinite & Eternal
Far more than a sound, Aum embodies the very essence of existence — the vibration of the universe and the interconnectedness of all beings.
This sacred vibration resonates across time, space, and form, harmonising the individual with the cosmos and unlocking higher states of consciousness.
Through its practice, Aum offers a journey inward, guiding one to transcend the ego, embrace inner peace, and experience a profound oneness with the universe. As both the sound of creation and the essence of the universe, Om illuminates the path to spiritual awakening and the realisation of our highest potential.
