21AUMS
- Stasia Brady
- Jan 30, 2024
- 4 min read
Updated: Feb 13
AUM is not just a sound or vibration
It is not just a symbol
It is the entire cosmos, whatever we can see, touch, hear and feel
It is all that is within our perception & all that is beyond our perception
It is the core of our very existence
-Amit Ray, Hindu Spiritual Mast-
A question I had to ask myself before I could fully embrace chanting AUM during my meditation practice was: why should I chant and repeat the sound AUM?
I had already learned at the start of my yoga journey that the repetition of "AUM" (also spelled OM) is commonly practiced in meditation and spiritual traditions, particularly in Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism. However, what I didn’t know much about was the act of chanting itself. What is the significance behind it all, and what purpose does it serve? So, I began researching, and here’s what I discovered.
Chanting AUM 21 times is not necessarily a fixed rule. The number of repetitions is ultimately a personal choice and can vary for each individual. However, a few common repetition counts regularly practiced include:
Three Repetitions: The number 3 is often associated with the three aspects of time—past, present, and future—or the three states of consciousness—waking, dreaming, and deep sleep.
Seven Repetitions: In certain yogic traditions, chanting AUM seven times corresponds to the seven chakras or energy centers in the body.
108 Repetitions: The number 108 holds significant meaning in many Eastern traditions. It is considered a sacred and auspicious number. Chanting AUM 108 times is common in meditation practices. This number has various interpretations, including the 108 Upanishads, 108 marma points in the body, and the 108 beads on a mala (prayer beads).
I have chosen 21 AUMs as my personal repetition number and as part of my ‘snazzy’ business name to capture the significance of the numbers three, seven, and twenty-one. Numerology is a concept filled with wisdom and knowledge—something I’m just beginning to explore. There are plenty of resources online that break down the meanings behind each number, but for this post, I’ll keep it simple. Here's how the math and numerology work for me 😁, followed by a few supporting links:
3 = (21/7)
7 = (21/3)
21 = (3 x 7) or (7 x 3)
21 = (2+1 = 3)
The number 21 is often associated with completion or mastery, with the individual digits 2 and 1 holding their own symbolic significance. Together, they add up to 3, uniting as 21. Chanting AUM 21 times may represent the completion of a cycle or the attainment of a desired goal. It can also be seen as a way to deepen focus and strengthen one’s connection with the divine or higher self. Ultimately, the meaning behind chanting AUM 21 times is subjective and can hold personal significance for each practitioner.
Known Positive Benefits of Chanting AUM:
Relaxation and Stress Reduction: Chanting AUM is believed to have a calming effect on both the mind and body, helping to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
Focus and Concentration: Regular chanting of AUM is thought to enhance concentration and improve mental clarity, making it an effective tool to center the mind during meditation.
Spiritual Connection: In many spiritual traditions, AUM is regarded as a sacred and universal sound, representing the essence of ultimate reality or consciousness. Chanting it is believed to deepen one’s spiritual connection.
Vibration and Energy Flow: The vibration created by chanting AUM is said to positively affect the energy flow within the body. It is associated with activating the chakras, promoting balance and overall well-being.
Sound Therapy: Some proponents of sound therapy believe that the resonance of chanting AUM can have healing effects on both the body and mind.
Enhanced Respiratory Function: Chanting AUM involves controlled breathing, which can improve respiratory function and help individuals become more aware of their breath, fostering healthier breathing patterns.
Mindfulness and Awareness: Chanting AUM serves as a mindfulness practice, encouraging individuals to remain present and heighten their awareness of the current moment.
Positive Mood and Emotional Well-being: Chanting AUM is often linked to positive emotions and a sense of inner peace. Regular practice may contribute to improved emotional well-being and a more balanced mood.
Promotion of Self-Reflection: The practice of chanting AUM can encourage self-reflection and introspection, supporting personal growth and increased self-awareness.
Cultural and Community Connection: For many, chanting AUM is not just an individual practice but a communal one, fostering unity and connection with others who share similar beliefs and practices.
It’s important to note that these benefits are often subjective and can vary from person to person. Individuals should approach such practices with an open mind and seek out teachers if desired. Additionally, some scientific studies suggest that mindfulness practices, including chanting, can have positive effects on mental well-being, but more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms involved.
Conclusion:
The symbol and vibration of AUM is one that I personally resonate with. By incorporating it into my daily health and wellness routine, I’ve seen the positive influence it has had on my mental health, focus, and overall well-being.
Love and Light,
Stasia
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