03/05/2025
So, I’d like to write a bit about OM - where did it come from, what does it mean and how do we do it???
The written form of Om originated somewhere in the 1st to 4th centuries CE, but was very likely used and understood much before that. It originally came out of the ancient Vedic texts of Hinduism, known as the Upanishads, but that does not mean that OM is necessarily a Hindu practice alone.
The word Om is defined as being the primordial sound of creation. It is the original vibration of the universe. From this first vibration, all other vibrations are able to manifest. Because it is a primordial sound, it is considered beyond thought and because it is beyond thought, it really means No-Thing and does not belong to any particular religion or sect.
By chanting Om, we can align our frequency with that of the original universal frequency and it is wonderful tool for meditation. The mind becomes aligned with the breath, which enables a person to get into a one pointed state of consciousness (Dharana leading to Dhyana on the Ashtanga 8 fold path)
Each aspect of the visual form of Om signifies the 4 states of consciousness.
(jāgrat). The large lower curve marks the normal waking state. In this condition, the mind identifies with the physical body and perceives the world through the senses.
(sushupti) The upper curve indicates the unconscious state, or that of deep sleep. This is a state of total unawareness, in which you are in a deep dreamless sleep, and you are withdrawn from both physical and mental activities.
(swapna) The middle curve denotes the dream state. The dream state is in between the deep sleep and waking state, where a person explores the subconscious. Your consciousness is turned inwards, as your fears, hopes, and desires manifest themselves in an imaginary world.
(turiyā) The dot is a symbol of enlightenment. In this state, a person becomes harmonized with the Absolute, recognizing that all of creation is made up of spirit and is united through that commonality. This state is beyond the mundane senses, and can only be achieved by associating with spiritual energy.
Maya - The crescent represents maya, which separates the three curves from the dot. Maya is the illusion that binds an individual soul to the material world.
By chanting Om, one can transcend the three curves of material consciousness, and attain the dot of enlightenment.
Om is actually enunciated as AUM. When we take in a full breath in and start with the “A” sound, the jaw is dropped open and the sounds emits from the back of the throat. Vibration is felt in the lower belly.
Moving forward into the “U” sound the jaw comes a bit closer together as we feel the sound in the upper cleft of the mouth and vibration in the solar plexus and heart area is felt.
The lips come together as we move into the “M” and vibration is moves into the skull.
As an experiment, I suggest finding a comfortable seated position with a tall straight spine, somewhere quiet where you won’t be disturbed, and try AUMing for 10 to 15 minutes and then just sitting quietly for a few moments after that as you observe how that made you feel. OM
