Welcome to an in-depth exploration of AUM, the sacred symbol that resonates across cultures, beliefs, and sciences. In this enlightening journey, we’ll unravel the rich tapestry of meanings behind AUM, delve into the proper technique of chanting it, and uncover the science-backed benefits it offers. So, let’s embark on this insightful adventure together.

Understanding the Significance of AUM

AUM, also known as Omkara or Pranava, encapsulates the essence of a sacred sound, syllable, mantra, and invocation. It transcends boundaries, symbolizing the universal sound that initiated creation, echoing the essence of the Big Bang theory. Found in ancient yogic texts like the Upanishads and Vedas, AUM represents the cosmic vibration permeating all existence. It’s the primal sound – the seed of all words. AUM refers to Atman (the soul, self within) and Brahman (the ultimate reality, entirety of the universe).

The triad of A-U-M embodies many profound concepts, including:

• continuity of past, present and future.
• masculine, feminine and neutral principles.
• the creator (Brahma), the maintainer (Vishnu) and the destroyer (Shiva). Together, they represent the cycle of life and existence.
• three Gunas or qualities of Sattva, Rajas and Tamas. Overall, the whole symbol represents a gunatita, one who has transcended and gone beyond the pull of the Gunas.
• four states of Human Consciousness as outlined in Mandukya Upanishad: Jagrat (awake), Swapna (dream), Prajna (deep sleep), Turya (pure consciousness).

Unveiling Science-Backed Benefits of AUM Chanting

Beyond spirituality, science reveals the tangible benefits of AUM chanting:

• A brief AUM chanting for 5 minutes can enhance parasympathetic nervous system activity, promote relaxation, and provide calmness ¹
• Regular chanting of Aum can be effective in the treatment of depression & epilepsy via vagus nerve stimulation ²
• Regular practice of OM meditation is helpful in increasing cardiorespiratory efficiency ³
• It is quite effective to enhance the memory ⁴
• It is effective in reducing blood pressure and improving lipid profiles in patients with HTN ⁵
• It is effective in improving the pulmonary functions ⁶
• It can relieve from psychological and anxiety disorders and help achieve a state of mental peace ⁷
• It has a positive effect on mood and social cognition ⁸

Chanting AUM: Mastering the Sacred Technique

The techniques of chanting AUM have deep roots in ancient spiritual traditions and Vedic texts such as the Upanishads and the Vedas. While the exact source may be elusive, however, basis various commentaries and teachings from my different teachers, we can approach AUM chanting in two ways:

1. Chanting as One Word: Chant “AUM” as a single, continuous sound, embodying simplicity and ease of practice.
2. Breaking Down into Syllables: Chant “A”, “U”, and “M” distinctly, emphasizing the unique vibration of each syllable. The Mandukya Upanishad also has a reference to breaking down of AUM into three syllables “Akaar (A)”, “Ukaar (U)” and “Makaar (M)” ⁹ .

When we chant AUM by breaking it into three syllables:

• Its physical articulation activates various parts of the body, fostering a holistic resonance : we open the mouth (‘A’), move the lips closer to each other (‘U’) and then close the mouth (‘M’). This activates the larynx fully.
• ‘A’ resonates in the stomach and chest, ‘U’ in the throat and chest and ‘M’ in the nasal cavity, skull and brain.

Concluding Thoughts: Embracing the Eternal Mystery

As we conclude our exploration of AUM, it’s essential to acknowledge that while science provides valuable insights into its benefits, there’s still much to uncover. However, as practitioners, we understand that the true essence of AUM transcends empirical evidence. Its power is undeniable, its resonance sublime.

May all beings be blessed with the sacred vibrations of AUM, guiding us on our journey of self-discovery, healing and inner transformation.

Citations

1. Immediate Effects of OM Chanting on Heart Rate Variability Measures Compared Between Experienced and Inexperienced Yoga Practitioners by Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India ↩︎
2. Neurohemodynamic correlates of ‘OM’ chanting: A pilot functional magnetic resonance imaging study by Department of Psychiatry, Advanced Center for Yoga, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore ↩︎
3. Effect of OM meditation on autonomic functions in healthy young individuals ↩︎
4. Effect of Nadishodhan Prayayama and Om chanting on Memory Enhancement of College Students ↩︎
5. Effect of om chanting and yoga nidra on blood pressure and lipid profile in hypertension – A randomized controlled trial ↩︎
6. Effect of Bhramari pranayama and OM chanting on pulmonary function in healthy individuals: A prospective randomized control trial ↩︎
7. EFFECTS OF OM MANTRA CHANTING ON ANXIETY LEVEL ↩︎
8. Chanting Meditation Improves Mood and Social Cohesion ↩︎
9. https://estudantedavedanta.net/Mundaka_and_Mandukya_Upanishads%20-%20Swami%20Sarvanand%20[Sanskrit-English].pdf ↩︎