Every mantra starts with “Oṃ “. Regardless of whether it is a Vedic, Pauranik, or Beej Mantra, each one of them is chanted starting with “Om“. But why is it so? The secret behind using “Oṃ” before chanting every mantra is revealed in the Dharma Shastras.
According to the scriptures, the whole world is composed of three properties, namely Raj, Sat, and Tam.
‘Oṃ’ is the powerful Eka Akshar Brahm, the ultimate force behind the creation and destruction of all things in nature. As such, it holds the position of the ruler and God over the three fundamental properties of the world.
In a similar vein, Lord Ganesha, being the Parabrahma of Nature, bears a name that signifies not just his authority as the lord of Ganas (a group of celestial beings), but also as the lord of qualities and attributes.
Lord Ganesha not only presides over heaven but also embodies a multitude of divine qualities. That’s why the sacred sound Oṃ is revered as the symbol of this deity. As the harbinger of auspiciousness, Lord Ganesha holds the esteemed position of being the first deity to be worshipped.
Hence, it is customary to invoke Oṃ before chanting any mantra dedicated to other gods. By uttering “Oṃ” before any mantra, we honor and invoke the presence of Lord Ganesha, paying our respects before connecting with any other deity.
The Sanskrit syllable Oṃ has grown popular among yogis and those interested in spirituality, but how many of us truly understand its significance or how it might promote our spiritual practice and growth? This article will look at the meaning, origins, and application of this important symbol.
The Vibrations of Aum (Om)
The late teacher and author Mr. BKS Iyengar, in his book, “Light on Yoga”, considers Aum “[in Sanskrit] to mean all, and conveys concepts of omniscience, omnipresence, and omnipotence.”
Chanting Oṃ is believed to have a positive effect on the pineal gland, a small gland located near the pituitary gland and hypothalamus in the brain, which produces melatonin. The pineal gland is also known as the “seed of intuition,” and it can become calcified due to stress, diet, and environmental factors. Chanting Oṃ is thought to stimulate the pineal gland and help in decalcifying it.
After one chanting session, take a moment to pause and sit in blissful silence. Embrace the creative void and immerse yourself in the primordial vibration that resonates with the universe. As you chant the sacred syllables of AUM, feel the vibrations pulsating within your being, at three specific points.
- Chanting “AA” can have a profound impact on your body when done correctly. As you repeat this powerful sound, you’ll begin to feel a gentle vibration emanating from your navel and spreading to your abdominal area. This sensation is directly connected to your waking state, creating an elevated sense of awareness and focus.
- With the transformative power of chanting UU, you feel the gentle vibration resonate within your chest cavity. This harmonious rhythm is intricately connected to the dream state, unlocking a profound sense of serenity and inner exploration.
- The powerful vibrations of chanting EEMM reverberate through your throat and create a profound connection with the energy around you. This unique practice is closely associated with the state of deep sleep, allowing you to reach new levels of relaxation and harmony.
Once you chant the sacred syllable “Aum,” a moment of tranquility follows, symbolizing boundless awareness. Spiritual authorities assert that these three powerful sounds possess the ability to manifest positive changes in your existence. It is crucial to acquire the proper guidance from an expert to master the art of chanting Aum.
The Healing Power Of Oṃ
The AUM mantra holds profound significance in Indian Vedic practices, serving as the essence of all sounds. Throughout history, sound healing has been revered as a fundamental and effective therapeutic technique.
An ancient tradition, it encompasses the creation of diverse mantras, sounds, and musical compositions formulated using the principles of the “science of sound.” These powerful tools are designed to address specific ailments and promote overall wellness for our physical and mental well-being.
1. Increase neural connectivity in the brain
Oṃ chanting can increase neural connectivity in the brain, particularly in the prefrontal cortex and the default mode network. The prefrontal cortex controls decision-making and planning, while the default mode network is involved in self-reflection and mind-wandering. In a study, participants who chanted Oṃ had a significant increase in neural connectivity in these regions compared to a control group. This suggests that Oṃ chanting can enhance cognitive functioning and self-awareness.
2. Trigger Brain Waves
Oṃ chanting has been extensively studied for its impact on brain waves. These waves, generated by the brain, can be measured using electroencephalography (EEG). Research has shown that Oṃ chanting can trigger changes in brain wave activity, specifically in the alpha and theta frequency ranges.
Alpha waves are linked to relaxation and meditation, while theta waves are associated with deep relaxation and sleep.
3. Reduce Anxiety Levels
Chronic stress and anxiety can severely impact a person’s physical and mental health, increasing the risk of developing other mental health conditions like depression.
Research has explored the effects of Oṃ chanting on stress and anxiety levels, with promising findings. Participants engaging in Oṃ chanting reported significantly reduced anxiety levels compared to a control group, and it was found to be as effective as mindfulness meditation in reducing anxiety levels.
These studies suggest that Oṃ chanting can serve as an effective complementary therapy for individuals with stress and anxiety disorders.
4. Improve Cognitive Flexibility
Mindfulness involves being present and aware of one’s thoughts and feelings without judgment. Oṃ chanting, according to a study, can enhance mindfulness and cognitive functioning. People who practiced Oṃ chanting reported improved cognitive flexibility and attentional control.
These findings suggest that Oṃ chanting could be a useful method for enhancing mindfulness and cognitive abilities.
5. Inner Peace and Spiritual Development
Oṃ chanting is a spiritual practice that can bring inner peace and help with spiritual development. It has been proven to improve spiritual well-being and make people feel more connected to the universe. One study showed that participants who chanted Oṃ felt closer to nature and experienced a sense of transcendence.
6. Purify Environment
Chanting the Oṃ Mantra holds the incredible power to purify your environment and generate a cascade of positive vibrations. By immersing yourself in this universal hymn, you unlock the potential to enhance your concentration significantly.
Mentions Of Om In Different Texts
Oṃ (Aum), has deep roots in ancient India and holds great significance. The esteemed syllable “Oṃ” originated centuries ago and is mentioned prominently in the revered Hindu scriptures called the Vedas, composed between 1500 BCE and 500 BCE. Considered the primordial sound, Oṃ represents the essence from which all creation and sounds emerge, symbolizing the Supreme Power.
The sacred syllable “Oṃ” holds importance not only in the Vedas, but also in other ancient Indian texts like the Upanishads, Bhagavad Gita, and Yoga Sutras of Patanjali. These revered texts provide ample evidence of the widespread use of “Oṃ” in spiritual practices and its representation as a sacred symbol of Hinduism.
Oṃ is a sacred name or symbol that represents God. It encompasses the entire human experience. Composed of three letters, A, U, and M, each letter signifies a different realm. A represents the physical plane, U signifies the mental and astral plane, and M represents the deep sleep state. This profound concept is found in various Indian scriptures, including the Mandukya Upanishad. It teaches that Oṃ is the syllable of the past, present, and future, and from it, all things manifest and extend.
In the Mundaka Upanishad, it is beautifully explained that Oṃ represents the bow, while the soul is the arrow, and Brahman is the ultimate target. Only those who are unwavering and precise can achieve this target. It is important to merge oneself completely with the target, just as an arrow becomes one with its mark. This entails letting go of notions related to the physical body, ego, and life energy, and embracing the eternal.
The Svetasvatara Upanishad teaches that Oṃ can be likened to a fire, present within firewood but unrecognized until two sticks are rubbed together. Similarly, the self is comparable to this fire, revealed only through constant awareness of the sacred syllable Oṃ. Visualize the body as one stick, and Oṃ as the other. Through this friction, the true essence concealed within becomes apparent, just as fire lies concealed within wood.
The Yoga Sutras of Patanjali contain a clear explanation of Om. It states that Om, also known as Pranava, is equivalent to Ishwara or God. Although Oṃ is only mentioned once in PYS, its meaning is defined in Chapter I, Verses 24-26. These verses describe Ishwara as a unique entity unaffected by suffering, actions, or their consequences. It is stated that God possesses endless omniscience.
Ishwara, the supreme being described as Pranava (Oṃ) in the Patanjali Yoga Sutras, is considered the original guru. Sutra 28 suggests that to realize Ishwara, one should mentally repeat Oṃ while reflecting on its meaning.
The Bhagavad Gita is a spiritual text that conveys Krishna’s teachings to Arjuna before a major battle. In the text, Krishna emphasizes the significance of Oṃ, which represents supreme consciousness. By practicing concentration and always remembering Oṃ, individuals can achieve the ultimate goal of spiritual enlightenment.
We hope that you are convinced about the benefits of chanting Oṃ through this article and if you still aren’t then experience them live by joining the program The Essence of Oṃ: Find Balance, Peace, and Clarity in the Year 2024 with Harshvardhan Jhaveri from 12th Jan-14th Jan, 2024 from 07:30-08:15 AM IST.
With participants hailing from every corner of the globe, our program generates a mesmerizing digital vortex through the harmonizing chant of Oṃ. We kindly invite you to share the program details with your loved ones, allowing them to participate in this transformative experience.
- Introduction to Oṃ- What is it?
- Study and learn about the scriptural references in Sanskrit and understand the meaning.
- Learn how to chant Oṃ according to the traditional texts and the significance of the number 108.
- Dhyāna on Oṃ – Learn easy ways to integrate the practice into your daily routine.
- Explore Sagarbha Prāṇāyāma i.e. prāṇāyāma with the mantra Oṃ followed by a short guided meditation.
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