Why is the sound “Om” integral to yoga practice?
The chanting of Om is very integral to Yoga practice. Om is a combination of three syllables- a, u and m. “Aum” is chanted three times at the start and finish of a yoga session. The chanting has to be done by extending the syllables “aaaaaauuuuuummmmm”. It has an immense effect on the mind and body of the chanter.
The sound begins in the throat “ah” (it is pronounced without touching any part of the pallet), and then the lips take a circular shape and come together while pronouncing “oh” (links the first and the last sound), and ends with the nasal sound “mmm” (produced by closing the lips). And according to Sanskrit grammar, when the sounds “a” and “u” join together, it becomes “o”. “O” is a diphthong that begins with “a”, and ends in “u”. The sound originates in the navel and gradually resonates in the nostrils. The chanting has to be long and equal. It should be chanted in a relaxed manner.
One should begin yogasana by chanting om. “Aum” is considered to be the origin of all sounds. It is the meeting point of the body, mind and soul; and hence its significance in the yoga practices. During meditation, the sound is concentrated and focused upon. The chanting of Om harmonizes our entire being.
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