Introduction
OM (sometimes written as AUM) is a sacred sound in the yoga practice that speaks to something inside of us at an eternal level. OM is more than just a word—it represents the syllable that symbolizes all energy of ultimate reality. OM, as used in yoga, connects the practitioner to greater awareness by tuning out everything else and focusing only on this experience. Whether OM has been chanted at the beginning or ending of a yoga class you have attended, merely seeing on spiritual paraphernalia with an interest to know and understand its meaning could significantly improve your practice as well as your health.
The Meaning of OM in Yoga
OM, which is sometimes written as AUM, is a word representing what was said to be the primordial sound present at the universe’s creation. OM is the sound of creation in yoga; it’s the same as vibration that resonates all living things.
In yoga and meditation, we chant OM to resonate with this same universal vibration, which is said to clear the mind of distractions, filling it instead with tranquillity. It is like tuning into the frequency of the universe. We feel rooted and plugged in to all when we sing OM. Related to that, for many practitioners, it represents the trinity of body, mind, and spirit—one of yoga’s primary aims.
The OM (AUM) Symbol: A Deeper Understanding
More than a visual representation, the OM symbol is spiritual and rooted in an understanding that goes much deeper within yoga. The OM symbol consists of three sections:
The three curves: The states of consciousnes The big bottom curve represents the state of awakening in which we relate with our exterior reality. The middle curve represents the dream state, a realm of inner contemplation and imagination. The top curve represents the misty gap of deep sleep when having no dreams or notions.
The crescent and the dot: The small arc above these curves represents a veil of illusion (known as maya) that we might break free from enlightenment. The dot represents pure consciousness or the infinite space of turiya—inner peace, beyond being asleep and awake.
A beautiful interpretation of the OM symbol is that it represents our path from ignorance to enlightenment, which can help you progress with your meditation.
OM vs. AUM: What’s the Difference?
OM vs AUM You may have read that ‘OM’ is also spelt as with an aurthenatic O. OM is a short version of AUM, in other words, A-U-M.
A stands for waking state, where we perceive our surroundings through this organ.
U: Dreams = active mind + waves in subconscious.
M: It is representing the fully relaxed state during deep sleep, where one has a peaceful mind and body relax.
Collectively, AUM represents the full spectrum of human life, from awake to dream state to sleep status. When you say Om, what it will do is that it will reflect the completeness of life. It is a potent reminder that all in the universe are united.
Spiritual Benefits of Chanting OM
OM chanting has practical and emotional benefits, as well. When we chant the OM sound, the wave of vibration goes through our body and radiates within, which helps bring peace deep down. It is thought that the vibration of this crystal can help to energize and align all energy centers on our body (chakras), but in particular, it helps activate two chakras: the third eye and crown.
That chanting OM also helps in reducing stress and anxiety. Research has shown that the sound of OM (AUM) creates a powerful impact upon the nervous system and slows down the brain, which provides deep rest to the physical body. And a lot of people make it the first or last thing they do each day to tune back into themselves.
OM as a Universal Sound
Cloistered within OM are some of the most beautiful elements, with one being that it exists universally. This place goes across the border of religious and cultural ones. The holistic resonance of the OM word repeats several times, engrossed in our mind and heart, but it is widely recognized as one of the spiritual symbols, even among people who follow Buddhism and Jainism.
On a more universal level, OM is an expression of the oneness that permeates all things. We are all one, whether it be yoga and meditation or the same sound of OM. That is why the chant of OM has such a divine effect in the life of one who practices it—a feeling to establish themselves with the universe.
Conclusion
Understanding the significance of OM and explaining how it is reflected in the OM sign during practice introduces students to a more profound understanding of this tradition. OM is a sound that, when repeated by you, meditated on in its purest form (not actually saying it as we know this word and just feeling the idea of OM), or reflected upon with certain intention, will lead to connecting to much higher spiritual vibrations. Including OM in your yoga practice can provide a feeling of peace and balance as well as oneness (within yourself and to the planet).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
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