Aum: The Sacred Universal Sound

One of the best ways to get started with meditation is to use the “Om” or “Aum” (spelling differs, but meaning remains the same) Mantra. A mantra is defined as a subtle sound vibration, or an intentional vibrational sound meant to liberate and/or access certain levels of energetic being. Different mantras target different aspects of our energy/lives, just like different asana poses target different aspects of our muscle groups/areas. There are tons of different mantras that you can learn, however most are in Sanskrit and can be difficult to learn at first. The most simple, universal, and powerful mantra you can begin with is the Om Mantra. It is literally as simple as verbally (or mentally) chanting/stating the word Om/Aum in a seated position, with your eyes closed.

Now, there is a specific way to be saying/feeling this word out, and that is where a trained practitioner comes in handy. The word Aum can be broken down into three distinct syllables/sounds: A- ah; U- uuoo; M- mmm. Each of these represent a different level of consciousness.

A- Represents the conscious world and creation. What we are already experiencing, what has already been brought into existence/manifestation.

U- Represents the intermediate realms and the subconscious. This is where things are right below the surface, about to be revealed. The veil is thin, we can feel it, but not see it yet.

M- Represents the unconscious and the unmanifest. The things that have yet to be, the things that have yet to form; total potential energy. The form is never set, it is always in flow, just as we always have the power to change our course with a simple turn of our sail.

These three aspects together represent the Supreme Consciousness and existence of manifestation. It represents the idea that we understand where we are in the present, and use our subconscious as a tool to manifest the highest good into the future. It is the understanding that we are all a part of One Universal Consciousness, and that being a part of that also means we have a responsibility in our own lives to grow, evolve, love, expand, and joyfully create a life of authentic peace. It is the knowing that we are all connected through the web of ethereal love, across the universe, and that by chanting this word Aum, we can remember our true nature, and come back to our Selves. And it is from that space that we can move into our highest good for all.

So, if you have been thinking about starting a meditation practice, but have no idea where to start, the Aum Mantra is a wonderful beginning to your meditation journey. Not sure how to start your chanting/mantra practice? Check out my YouTube video Beginning Meditation: Aum Mantra here. This walks you through step-by-step how to best sit, breathe, chant, and start your meditation journey with the Om Mantra. Enjoy! And please let me know your experience after trying this out in the comments below!