Om is the genesis seed, or Bija, according to Patajali's
Yoga Sutras, from which all other sounds and words derive. In yoga lessons in
the West, this basic seed word is sung to tune into the higher self, connect to
the cosmos, and deepen meditation.
What Does Om Mean?
Many ancient philosophical books regard om or aum
(pronounced ah-uu-mm) to be the sound of the cosmos, including all other sounds
within it. Om is known in Sanskrit as Pranava, which means "to hum,"
and is regarded as an infinite or endless sound. Om chanting is a spiritual
activity that transcends culture and religion and is inclusive of all
conceivable definitions and interpretations of God, or Brahma. It is associated
with Indian culture, Buddhism, Hinduism, and Jainism.
What Are the Different Parts of Om?
The sound om is described as having three parts in the
Mandukya Upanishad, an ancient Vedic text linked to Vedanta Hindu beliefs.
These three stages are interpreted by Patajali, a sage who wrote and taught the
first and most comprehensive yoga scriptures, as the beginning, middle, and end
of all other sounds in the universe. They are:
The quiet after the "M" in om is known as Anahata
Nada, or "pure silence," according to the Vedas, a collection of
ancient Hindu writings. This component is defined by some teachers as something
beyond sound or linguistic cognition, while others say it reflects a tranquil
state of mind.
How Is Om Applied in Yoga?
Om is used in numerous ways in yoga culture and individual
yoga and meditation practises:
To represent the yoga philosophy. In Sanskrit, the om sign
is frequently painted on the walls of yoga studios, used as a decoration on
yoga mats, and even worn as a necklace.
To become aware of the interconnectedness of all things.
Yoga practitioners chant om to begin or conclude their practise, and it is
usual for the entire class to repeat the sound one to three times. You can
chant the sacred syllable alone or in a group, as long as you keep your
conscious breath in sync.
To improve the quality of one's meditation. With your eyes
closed, focus in and up into your third eye chakra while chanting om to assist
deepen your state of meditation.
To bring the body's systems into balance. Through the
powerful vibrations caused by the music, the sacred sound also balances and
harmonises the neurological system.
To create more complicated mantras. You may combine om with
additional Sanskrit syllables to form more sophisticated, advanced mantras,
such as "Om Mani Padme Hum," which is used in various Buddhist
teachings. Mani denotes a gem, Padme denotes a lotus flower, and Hum denotes
enlightenment.
How to Practice Yoga Safely and Avoid Injuries
To guarantee the safety and efficiency of a yoga practise,
proper form and technique are required. Consult your doctor before beginning
yoga if you have a past or pre-existing health issue. Yoga positions may be
customised to meet your specific needs.
