Om is the Universal Sound of Creation. This single word contains all the sounds of the entire Universe. It is usually chanted at the beginning of almost every single mantra, at the start and end of a yoga class, and can be chanted at any time and any place really and even inside your mind. The vibrations created by chanting this mantra can slow down the nervous system and induce one with a feeling of calm and centered oneness with the self. It creates a very positive effect on the environment around you. Science has also conducted various researches on the effects of chanting this mantra and has found that it creates activity in the brain that is similar to the stimulation of the vagus nerve which is used to trust epilepsy and depression.
Contrary to popular belief, Om actually consists of 4 syllables and not one.
It is a union of the body-mind and soul.
The Syllables of Om are:
A - this represents the conscious state; that which is eternal and influence by our 5 senses.
U - the subconscious state; that which is within and which we experience with our eyes closed; this the state where we dream.
M - The superconscious state; this is the innermost part of us, it has no desires and no dreams, it is universal and pure
Silent Syllable:
this is the state in between, where the is no movement or activity, it is a state of bliss.
When we chant the Om sound, we actually chant AAA, OOO, MMMM, …….(silence to feel the vibrations in our throat, body, and the environment). With continuous practice, we make sure to remember that the sound comes from our abdomen and travels upwards through our chest and throat and not directly from our throat itself. It is similar to singing.
It’s very important to pronounce all the words correctly as each word creates vibrations in your throat, body and sends the right vibrations out in the Universe as well.
Science also believes that Mantras are like affirmations. They are constant motivations and reminders of the purpose. The more you repeat an affirmation or mantra, the more signals you are sending to your brain and to the Universe about your intention.
For the Universe, you have to be very clear about the specific reason why you are chanting a particular mantra. Else, you will be confusing the Universe and your efforts will go in vain.
One generally chants until their wishes are fulfilled.
How to Chant Mantras:
Mantras can be chanted out loud, they can be whispered and heard only by you, they can be written down over and over in a book or they can be recited in the mind. The last is the most advanced way of chanting a mantra.
Sometimes people also chant mantras for no specific reason. Maybe they are a devotee of that particular God or Goddess. In these cases, they are chanting out of Bhakti.
Most of the Gods in the Hindu Scriptures have certain numbers that are associated with them. It is said that you should chant Mantras a certain number of times deepening on which God you are chanting too.
Eg: The number of all Devis is 9. So Mantras to Goddesses can be chanted for a minimum of 9 times and the
The best time to chant a mantra is at Sandhya - 20 minutes before sunrise or just 20 minutes after Sunset.
