The sound “OM” or AUM is said to be the seed syllable of all creation. It is a powerful mantra in its singularity and reaps enormous benefits not only for the physical body, but also the etheric and causal bodies. There is much more to the sound of Aum than may initially be apparent.
Aum actually consists of four syllables: A, U, M, and the silent syllable.
The first syllable is A, pronounced as a prolonged "awe." The sound starts at the back of your throat and you stretch it out. You will start feeling your solar plexus and chest vibrating.
The second syllable is U, pronounced as a prolonged “oo,” with the sound gradually rolling forward along your upper palate. You'll feel your throat vibrate.
The third syllable is M, pronounced as a prolonged “mmmm” with your front teeth gently touching. You will now start to feel the top of your vibrate.
The last syllable is the deep silence of the Infinite. As intelligence rises from the deep silence, you have to merge your chant from the ‘M’ to the deep silence.
Symbolically the three letters embody the divine energy (Shakti) and it’s 3 main characteristics: (1) creation, (2) preservation and (3) liberation.
When we say Aum, we let go of mental chatter and find focus. We relax the entire nervous system and body. When we inhale and then exhale Aum, we emanate sound from the abdomen, the heart and solar plexus, bathing those chakras with positive energy. The “M” consonant that resonates in the head as we get towards the end of our exhale actually stimulates the pineal gland in the middle of the brain. This gland releases melatonin, relaxing our entire bodies. It is for this reason that Aum chanting is used even in clinical settings now to treat cancer patients and other patients with various dis-eases.
The initial benefits of chanting Aum inlcude: a calming effect in the body and mind; the heart will regulate itself and the breathing will naturally slow down.
You will achieve the first stage of meditation by drawing your attention away from external noise, and things, bringing your awareness within; you will feel a pleasant harmonic vibration within the body, especially in the heart, chest and forehead. This increases when practicing Om with others; your organs will begin to function at their peak. They become “entrained” with the vibration you are making with your voice. Your concentration and brain functioning will improve. You will feel an indescribable sense of peace and well being. Finally, Om chanting is a wonderful way to introduce the body and mind to a more in depth meditative practice. You can also just continue to chant OM, bringing your awareness deeper and deeper within yourself. Not all the positive results of OM chanting appear to you right away. If you are looking for a spiritual awakening, especially, it will take many hours, many days in succession to feel the true benefits.
