Chanting Oṃ / AUM / ॐ
In many Eastern traditions, oṃ is considered to be equal to divinity, the sum of all of existence, the primal, universal sound. When we chant oṃ in yoga, we are calling on an experience of universality. We create a union between our worldly selves and our higher Selves.
The Components of Oṃ
“The Word is not a means of communicating with the sacred realm; it is itself the Absolute Truth.”
Anatomy of the oṃ symbol: the Sanskrit ligature also represents the rising levels of our existence.
In the book cited above, Tigunait reminds us that all spiritual traditions revere certain sounds for their “transformative power.”
In the yoga tradition and others, oṃ (ॐ) is one of those universal sounds.
Despite the spelling, it’s helpful to know that there are four parts to the sound when you chant it.
For this reason, sometimes you will see it spelled “AUM”:
The A is the first sound that comes out of the open mouth. It is associated with our “waking state” (jāgrat) and the abdomen.
The O/U as the mouth begins to close. This is our “dream state” (svapna) and the region of the heart.
The M when the lips are closed, our “deep sleep state” (suṣupti). Note: The dot below the letter “m” signifies a nasal quality. Have awareness in this area and behind the third eye.
And then there is the silence, the reverberation that continues on to pervade the subtle body and join with universal consciousness. The silence leads us beyond the body toward turīya. Turīya is that place of pure existence that lies beneath and throughout the other three states of consciousness.
When you chant A-U-M, experience the sound rising up through the whole spine. It begins at the base of the spine and abdomen (A), through our heart and throat (O), to the third eye and crown (M). Then pause and stay with the sound for a moment … notice the resonant silence within you.
You might start by beginning and/or concluding your practice with a single oṃ. It’s always appropriate. 😊
As a standalone practice, take several comfortable breaths, then chant A-U-M three to nine times.
The waveform of my oṃ: dissolving into silence.
Bonus: If you get an opportunity to practice in a group setting, the experience is amplified and can create a profound sense of unity with others.
Read more: Mediation: Where Do I Begin?
Deeper Practice
If, after you complete your repetitions, you want to meditate a bit longer, allow your breath to become smooth and even. Continue to ‘hear’ and sense the mantra. Try not to ‘create’ it; rather, let it come on its own. Settle your concentration in the midbrain and continue the chant mentally.
In the next phase, effortlessly inhale and hear the ‘A/U’ portion. Exhale ‘Mmm.’
Eventually, let go of all breath awareness and become absorbed in midbrain. Let the component sounds of A-U-M merge and resonate in that space.
Looking for guidance?
This article is an overview of a rich and venerated topic. It is written to provide introductory support for the beginner’s practices, and from teachings passed down through living traditions. I acknowledge and thank the teachings of Tanya Boigenzahn and Pandit Rajmani Tigunait.
