Mantras hold a significant place in the ancient practice of yoga, intertwining spirituality with mental discipline and personal transformation. Derived from the Sanskrit words “manas” (mind) and “tra” (instrument), a mantra can be understood as an instrument of the mind, a phrase, sound, or series of words that assists in focusing the mind and guiding it toward higher states of consciousness. In yoga, the practice of chanting mantras transcends mere sound; it embodies intention, vibration, and a pathway to deepening one’s meditation and spiritual experience.
The Power of Vibrational Sound
Every sound carries a frequency, and mantras are no exception. They produce vibrations that resonate within the practitioner and the surrounding environment. This resonance can induce profound emotional and psychological states. Chanting mantras can calm the mind, create a sense of peace, and foster spiritual connection. It aligns the body’s energy with higher planes of existence, facilitating healing and transformation.
Aum (Om): The Universal Sound
One of the most revered mantras in the yoga tradition is Aum (or Om). Often referred to as the “sound of the universe,” Aum encompasses the essence of existence. It represents the divine, the cosmic vibration that underlies all of creation.
Chanting Aum holds layers of significance:
1. Symbolism: Aum represents the three states of consciousness – wakefulness (A), dream (U), and deep sleep (M) – along with the transcendental state represented by the silence that follows its utterance. This encapsulates the full spectrum of human experience and the ultimate reality.
2. Meditative Practice: When chanted during meditation, Aum helps practitioners connect with their true self and the universe at large. The vibrations produced help in establishing a deep meditative state, enabling the musician to quiet their thoughts and reach profound levels of insight and awareness.
3. Breath and Energy: The chant of Aum is closely linked with breath control, an essential aspect of yoga practices. Singing Aum encourages proper breathing techniques and energy flow, leading to physical and mental well-being.
- A sound chanted (with the mouth open) resonates in the lower part of the body from the hips down to the toes.
- sound chanted (with the lips in a small circle) vibrates in the middle part of the body up to the neck.
- M sound chanted (with the lips closed) activates the energy in the head.
Sit quietly and chant with sound of AUM with the link below and notice how the mind starts to quieten with the mantra. The is the profound effect of Mantra on us.
So Hum: The Contemplative Breath
Another important mantra in the yoga tradition is So Hum, which translates to “I am that.” This mantra serves as a powerful affirmation of one’s identity and connection to the universe – I am one with the universe or Divine Consciousness.
1. Self-Realisation: So Hum transcends the ego, helping practitioners realize their true nature and inner essence. By mentally repeating this mantra, practitioners affirm their unity with all beings and the universe. It becomes a tool for self-inquiry, fostering a deeper understanding of one’s place in the cosmos.
2. Breath Synchronisation: Practising So Hum is often done in coordination with breath. As you inhale, you silently say “So,” and as you exhale, you say “Hum.” This synchronization of breath with mantra helps in calming the mind, increasing focus, and promoting a meditative state. It becomes a rhythmic flow that aligns body and mind, deepening the meditative experience.
3. Emotional Balance: The practice of So Hum fosters emotional stability, grounding the practitioner amid life’s chaos. It provides a sense of belonging and reduces feelings of isolation, reminding one of the interconnectedness of all life.
Listen to the beautiful sounds of So Hum with the Epic Choir. Try to breath in on the SO and out on the HUM.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the significance of mantras in the yoga tradition cannot be overstated. They are transformative tools that bridge the gap between the physical and spiritual dimensions. Whether through the universal resonance of Aum or the contemplative affirmation of So Hum, mantras anchor practitioners in the present moment, facilitating deeper self-awareness and a sense of connection to the divine. In incorporating these powerful sounds into your practice, you open doors to healing, awareness, and a journey toward enlightenment.
So, let your journey into yoga be enriched by the practice of mantra, resonating not only within yourself but also with the universe around you. Join as at Yogam Yoga to experience these profound practices to calm the mind and take us to higher levels of being.