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Yogic Mantra

Yogic Mantra




सोऽऽऽऽओऽऽऽऽओऽऽऽऽहम्
सोऽऽऽऽओऽऽऽऽओऽऽऽऽहम्
सोऽऽऽऽऽऽऽऽहम्
सोऽऽऽऽऽऽऽऽहम्
सोऽऽऽऽओऽऽऽऽओऽऽऽऽहम्

“त्वमेव माता च पिता त्वमेव।
त्वमेव बन्धुश्च सखा त्वमेव।
त्वमेव विद्या द्रविणं त्वमेव।
त्वमेव सर्वं मम देव देव॥”
अर्थ:
हे परमेश्वर!
तपाईं नै मेरी आमा हुनुहुन्छ, तपाईं नै मेरा बुबा हुनुहुन्छ।
तपाईं नै मेरा बन्धु (नातेदार) हुनुहुन्छ, तपाईं नै मेरा सखा (साथी) हुनुहुन्छ।
तपाईं नै मेरो शिक्षा हुनुहुन्छ, तपाईं नै मेरो धन हुनुहुन्छ।
हे परमदेव! तपाईं नै मेरो सबै थोक हुनुहुन्छ।
यो श्लोक भगवानप्रति सम्पूर्ण समर्पण व्यक्त गर्ने प्रार्थना हो, जसले हामीलाई सम्झाउँछ कि परमात्मा नै हाम्रो जीवनका सबै पक्षका सार हुन्।

कर्पूरगौरं करुणावतारं
संसारसारं भुजगेन्द्रहारम्।
सदावसन्तं हृदयारविन्दे
भवं भवानी सहितं नमामि॥
अर्थ:
हे भगवान शिव!
जो कर्पूर (कफूर) जस्तो उज्यालो (धवल वर्ण) हुनुहुन्छ, जो करुणाको अवतार हुनुहुन्छ,
जो सम्पूर्ण संसारका सारस्वरूप हुनुहुन्छ, जसले सर्पराजलाई हारका रूपमा धारण गर्नुभएको छ।
जो सधैँ भक्तहरूको हृदयरूपी कमलमा वास गर्नुहुन्छ,
त्यस्ता भगवान शिव, जो माता भवानी (पार्वती) सहित रहनुहुन्छ, म नमन गर्छु।
यो श्लोकले भगवान शिवको स्तुति गर्दै उहाँको सौम्यता, करुणा, शक्ति, र भक्तप्रति उहाँको सान्निध्यको महिमा वर्णन गरेको छ ।

ध्यानमूलं गुरुर्मूर्ति: पूजामूलं गुरुरदम्।
मन्त्रमूलं गुरुर्वाक्यं मोक्षमूलं गुरुर्कृपा॥
अर्थ:
गुरुको मूर्ति नै ध्यानको आधार हो,
गुरुको चरण नै पूजा गर्ने योग्य छन्।
गुरुको वचन नै मन्त्रको मूल (सार) हो,
गुरुको कृपा नै मोक्ष प्राप्त गर्ने मार्ग हो।
यो श्लोकले गुरुको महत्त्व दर्शाउँदै बताउँछ कि सच्चा ज्ञान, पूजा, मन्त्र, र मोक्ष प्राप्तिको मूल स्रोत गुरु नै हुन्। गुरुको कृपा बिना आत्मज्ञान र मुक्ति सम्भव छैन।

गुरुर्ब्रह्मा गुरुर्विष्णुः गुरुर्देवो महेश्वरः।
गुरुः साक्षात् परब्रह्म तस्मै श्रीगुरवे नमः॥
अर्थ:
गुरु नै ब्रह्मा हुनुहुन्छ (ज्ञानको सृजनकर्ता),
गुरु नै विष्णु हुनुहुन्छ (ज्ञानको पालनकर्ता),
गुरु नै महेश्वर (शिव) हुनुहुन्छ (अज्ञानको नाशकर्ता)।
गुरु नै साक्षात् परब्रह्म हुनुहुन्छ,
त्यसैले म त्यस पवित्र गुरुलाई नमन गर्छु।
यो श्लोकले गुरुको महिमा वर्णन गर्छ, जसमा गुरुलाई त्रिमूर्ति (ब्रह्मा, विष्णु, महेश) र परब्रह्मको रूपमा सम्मान गरिएको छ। गुरु नै ज्ञान प्रदान गर्ने, मार्गदर्शन गर्ने, र अज्ञान नाश गर्ने सर्वोच्च शक्ति हुन्।

ॐ सर्वे भवन्तु सुखिनः
सर्वे सन्तु निरामयाः।
सर्वे भद्राणि पश्यन्तु
मा कश्चित् दुःखभाग्भवेत्॥

अर्थ:
सबै जना सुखी रहून्।
सबै जना रोगमुक्त (निरोगी) रहून्।
सबै जना शुभ (कल्याणकारी) कुरा मात्र देखून्।
कसैलाई पनि दुःखको भागी हुन नपरोस्।

यो शान्ति मन्त्र हो, जसले समस्त मानवजातिको सुख, स्वास्थ्य, समृद्धि, र शान्तिको कामनाका साथै कुनै पनि प्राणी दुःखी नहोस् भन्ने समष्टि भावना व्यक्त गरिएको छ।

संकलन कर्ता
आचार्य अर्जुन न्यौपाने

To the Super Consciousness:

Twameva mata cha pita twameva
Twameva bandhus cha sakha twameva
Twameva vidya dravinam twameva
Twameva saravam mama deva deva

You are my mother and father
You are my brothers, sisters and best friends
You are my guru
You are my everything and the Super God

To Lord Shiva:

Karapura gauram karuna vataram
Sanshara saram bhujagendra haram
Shada basantam hridayaravinde
Bhavam Bhavami sahitam namami
Lord Shiva you are as white as campsor
You are the incarnation of kindness
You are the source of the world, the King of the
snakes
I bow down in front of you and your wife

To Our Gurus:

Dhyana moolam gururamoorti
Pooja moolam gurupadam
Mantra moolam gururdevakyam
Moksha moolam gurokripa
The root form of meditation is the statue of the guru
The main place of worship is the lotus feet of the
guru
The main mantra is that given by the guru
The source of liberation is the kindness of the guru

To Our Gurus 2:

Gurodebrahma gurudebishnur
Gurodedevo maheshwara
Gurodesakshat parabrahma
Tasmai shree guravee namaha
Tasmai shree guravee namaha

You are the creator and preserver of me
You are the destroyer
You are direct from the super consciousness
That is why I bow down in front of the guru
That is why I bow down in front of the guru

To All Living Beings:

Om sarve bhavantu sukinaha
Sarve santu niramaya
Sarve bhandrani pashyantu
Ma kaschid dukha bhagbhavet
May all beings be happy
May all remain healthy
May all know and understand well-being
May no one have any conflict or suffering

Om, Shanti, Shanti, Shanti

Universal Mantra
Peace, Peace, Peace

The Delight of Kids Yoga: A Guide to Teaching, Benefits, and Mindfulness!

The Delight of Kids Yoga: A Guide to Teaching, Benefits, and Mindfulness!

As generations pass, family dynamics are changing and so is the upbringing of our children. In the past, children went to school, came home, finished their homework, and rushed outdoors to play until dusk. Life was simple!

Now, children are introduced to cell phones, tablets, and televisions early on. Screentime starts with an hour-long ritual to mealtime necessity and finally becomes an addiction that kids can’t live without. No wonder, the average attention span of children is gradually decreasing.

Kid Using Tablet.
Kids are now addicted to screens.
Source: Wikimedia Commons

Unlike in the past, both parents are working, signifying an increase in purchasing capacity. Eating out has become a lifestyle. Children prefer all sorts of junk over homemade healthy food deemed boring by most children.  Children today are nutrition-deficient, meaning their food contains processed meat, a high amount of refined sugar, fried food, white flour, packet junk, biscuits, sodas, and what not!

On top of the unhealthy lifestyle, children are burdened by academics. Illnesses such as juvenile diabetes, neurological disorder, obesity, attention disorder, eye strain, sleep cycle disruption, aggression, anxiety, depression, reduced creativity, language development problem, lack of focus, and concentration have become common problems in kids today. That’s where kids yoga comes in!

A little girl doing Camel Pose
A little girl doing Camel Pose.

Kids yoga is a must-needed solution to our so-called “modern upbringing”. Where children lack focus, yoga demands stillness, where concentration is an issue, yoga practices build and enhance focus. Children practicing yoga will start living a life of well-being from an early age.

What is Kids Yoga?

Kids Yoga is a joyful, interactive, and transformative practice that blends physical movement, breath work, mindfulness, self-awareness with playfulness. This type of yoga is designed specifically for children for their holistic physical, mental, emotional, and cognitive development.

A small boy performs Janu Shirsasana
A small boy performs Janu Shirsasana.

Even though the practice is the same as adults’ yoga, the approach and teaching methods are different. While adult yoga typically emphasizes stillness and deep stretches, kids yoga introduces playful components such as storytelling, games, fun activities, and imaginative poses. It’s designed to match children’s shorter attention spans and high energy levels, making it a fun and accessible activity for kids of all ages.

Benefits of Kids Yoga

Needless to say, yoga is a holistic approach for physical and mental benefits for everyone, and for kids who start on their yoga journey early on, the benefits are profound and notable.

  • Improved Emotional Well-being:
    A study published in Frontiers in Psychology found that yoga interventions in schools significantly reduced anxiety and emotional distress among children, leading to better emotional self-regulation and coping skills.
    Reference: Telles, S., Singh, N., Bhardwaj, A. et al. (2019). Frontiers in Psychology.
  • Cognitive and Academic Benefits:
    Research published in The Journal of Child Development indicates that regular yoga practice improves attention, memory, and executive functioning, which positively impact academic performance.
    Reference: White, J. et al. (2021). The Journal of Child Development.
  • Physical Health Benefits:
    A study by Harvard Medical School highlights yoga’s role in improving physical flexibility, strength, and body awareness in children, contributing to better posture and physical coordination.
    Reference: Harvard Health Publishing (2019).
  • Stress Management and Mental Health:
    Research from The Journal of Clinical Child Psychology shows that yoga helps children manage stress, reduces symptoms of depression, and improves mood stability.
    Reference: Mitchell, J. et al. (2020). The Journal of Clinical Child Psychology.
  • Behavioral Improvements:
    Studies have documented improvements in behavior, social interactions, and self-discipline among children who regularly practice yoga.
    Reference: Steiner, N.J. et al. (2013). Journal of Behavioral Development.
  • Improved Focus and Concentration:
    Breathing exercises and yoga poses can boost children’s attention spans and enhance academic performance. (American Psychological Association)
  • Increased Self-Confidence:
    Yoga promotes self-awareness and fosters confidence by emphasizing personal progress rather than competition. (Journal of Child and Adolescent Mental Health)
  • Better Sleep Patterns:
    The calming effects of regular yoga practice can contribute to healthier and more restful sleep in children. (Sleep Foundation)

Can Kids Do Yoga?

Certainly! Children of all ages from toddlers to teens can do yoga. Yoga is both safe and fun for the children. Children’s yoga practice can be customized to fit various developmental stages and skill levels.

For younger children, yoga tends to be more playful and creative, while older kids might prefer structured sequences and mindfulness exercises. However, instructors have to be mindful of the developmental stages and capacity of children to perform asanas at different ages.  The most important aspect is to keep it enjoyable and captivating, ensuring that kids feel at ease and enthusiastic about joining in.

How to Teach Kids Yoga?

Children have a shorter attention span compared to adults. Keeping this in mind, kids yoga is designed to involve children voluntarily without pressuring them to do the poses. Unlike adult yoga, kids yoga is more fun and engaging. The following tips are helpful to teach kids yoga:

  • Make It Fun and Engaging: Incorporate storytelling, games, songs, and props to create an enjoyable yoga experience. For example, turn a yoga sequence into an imaginative adventure where kids “explore” different places.
  • Use Clear and Simple Instructions: Avoid complex directions. Demonstrate poses and use age-appropriate, straightforward language to make them easy to follow.
  • Introduce Mindfulness: Teach kids basic breathing exercises and simple mindfulness techniques to help them focus and stay calm.
  • Stay Adaptable: Be prepared to adjust the session based on the kids’ attention spans and energy levels. Don’t forget to give breaks in between.
  • Encourage Creativity: Allow children to create their own poses or add unique elements to the practice, nurturing their imagination and sense of ownership.
  • Use positive reinforcement: Always be aware of the words used with children. Negative words can demotivate the little minds from participating at all. Always use words of encouragement.

How to Become a Kids Yoga Teacher? Kids Yoga Certification?

If you love yoga and enjoy working with children, teaching kids’ yoga can be a rewarding career. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Complete a Yoga Teacher Training (YTT): Although not always mandatory, earning a 200-hour YTT certification provides a strong foundation and is highly beneficial.
  2. Specialize in Kids Yoga: Enroll in a specialized certification program focused on child development, age-appropriate yoga techniques, and effective classroom management. Check out our workshop on Kids Yoga!
  3. Gain Practical Experience: Build confidence by teaching at schools, community centers, or yoga studios. Volunteering is a great way to start.
  4. Keep Learning: Stay inspired and informed by participating in workshops, taking online courses, and reading up on the latest trends and techniques.

Kids Yoga and Mindfulness

Unlike the popular belief that children cannot really practice meditation and mindfulness, they actually can. Even though, on average, most children have a lesser attention span than adults, children can stay present with the help of many different fun activities and tools.

One of the most helpful tools that is used to help children practice mindfulness is “observing their breath”. By encouraging children to focus on their breath and stay present in the moment, yoga helps them build emotional resilience and self-awareness.

Little girl performs Alternate Nostril Breathing.
Little girl performs Alternate Nostril Breathing.

Mindfulness practices, like guided breathing exercises or body scans, can be easily incorporated into kids yoga sessions. Visualization works very well with them. These tools equip kids with healthy ways to manage stress, anxiety, and intense emotions.

For instance, a “balloon breath” exercise, where children visualize inflating a balloon in their belly as they inhale, can help them feel calm and centered.

Conclusion

Kids Yoga is more than just a physical activity—it’s a powerful way to promote happiness, health, and mindfulness in young minds. Children practicing yoga at a younger age are more likely to be flexible, healthy, and live a healthier life as an adult. By making the kids yoga practice fun, accessible, and meaningful, we can help kids build a strong foundation for lifelong physical and mental well-being.

मन्त्र र त्यस्का प्रकार!

मन्त्र भन्नाले विशिष्ट ध्वनि, शब्द वा वाक्यहरूको संयोजन हो, जसलाई धार्मिक वा आध्यात्मिक अभ्यासमा प्रयोग गरिन्छ। मन्त्र उच्चारणले मानसिक शान्ति, ध्यान केन्द्रित गर्ने शक्ति, र आध्यात्मिक उन्नति प्राप्त गर्न मद्दत पुर्‍याउँछ।

संस्कृत परिभाषा “मननात् त्रायते इति मन्त्रः।” अर्थात्, “जसको मननले (ध्यान वा चिन्तनले) त्राण (रक्षा वा उद्धार) गर्दछ, त्यसलाई मन्त्र भनिन्छ । यो मन्त्र ध्यान, आध्यात्मिक शुद्धता, र ज्ञान प्राप्तिका लागि विशेष महत्त्वपूर्ण मानिन्छ।

मन्त्रका विभिन्न प्रकार छन्, जसलाई प्रयोग र उद्देश्यका आधारमा वर्गीकृत गर्न सकिन्छ। यहाँ प्रमुख प्रकारहरू उल्लेख गरिएका छन्:

१. वेदमन्त्र

यी मन्त्रहरू वेदहरूमा पाइन्छन्। यिनलाई चार वेद (ऋग्वेद, यजुर्वेद, सामवेद, र अथर्ववेद) मा विभाजित गरिन्छ। यिनको प्रयोग यज्ञ, हवन, र पूजामा हुन्छ।

२. बीजमन्त्र

बीज मन्त्र छोटा, शक्तिशाली र साङ्केतिक ध्वनि वा शब्दहरू हुन्, जसले विशिष्ट ऊर्जा केन्द्रित गर्छ र साधकलाई आध्यात्मिक उन्नति तथा इच्छित फल प्राप्त गराउँछ। बीज मन्त्रहरूको महत्व निम्न प्रकारले वर्णन गर्न सकिन्छ:

शक्तिको केन्द्र बीज मन्त्रहरूमा ब्रह्माण्डीय ऊर्जा संचित हुन्छ। यी मन्त्रहरू जप गर्दा साधकले ब्रह्माण्डीय शक्तिसँग सम्पर्क स्थापित गर्न सक्छ।

ध्यान र मनोयोग बढाउने माध्यम

बीज मन्त्र जपले मनलाई शान्त राख्दै ध्यान केन्द्रित गर्न मद्दत गर्दछ। यसले मानसिक अस्थिरता हटाएर शान्ति र स्पष्टता प्रदान गर्छ।

ग्रह दोष शमन

ग्रहहरूको नकारात्मक प्रभावलाई न्यून गर्न बीज मन्त्र महत्त्वपूर्ण मानिन्छ। ग्रहसम्बन्धी मन्त्र जपले जीवनमा शान्ति र समृद्धि ल्याउँछ।

आध्यात्मिक उन्नति बीज मन्त्र जप गर्दा साधकको चेतना स्तर वृद्धि हुन्छ। यसले आत्मज्ञान र ब्रह्मज्ञान प्राप्तिमा सहायता पुर्‍याउँछ।

कर्म शुद्धि र नकारात्मक ऊर्जा हटाउन बीज मन्त्रको जपले व्यक्ति वरपर रहेको नकारात्मक ऊर्जा नष्ट गर्छ र सकारात्मक ऊर्जा ल्याउँछ। यसले जीवनमा सन्तुलन र स्थिरता कायम गर्न मद्दत गर्दछ।

शारीरिक र मानसिक स्वास्थ्य बीज मन्त्र जपले तन र मनलाई सन्तुलित राख्ने कम्पन (vibrations) उत्पन्न गर्छ, जसले स्वास्थ्यमा सुधार ल्याउँछ।

सिद्धि प्राप्ति: साधकहरूले ध्यानपूर्वक बीज मन्त्रको जप र ध्यान गर्दा आत्मज्ञान तथा सिद्धिहरू प्राप्त गर्न सक्छन्।

शक्तिपात (Divine Energy Activation) बीज मन्त्रहरूको नियमित अभ्यासले साधकको शरीरमा रहेको कुण्डलिनी शक्तिलाई जागृत गर्न सक्छ, जसले उच्च आध्यात्मिक अनुभव प्राप्त गराउँछ।

उदाहरण:

ॐ :- सम्पूर्ण ब्रह्माण्डको मूल ध्वनि।

ह्रीं :- देवीको शक्ति।

क्लीं :- प्रेम र आकर्षणको शक्ति।

बीज मन्त्र (Seed Mantra) लाई सनातन धर्म, विशेषतः मन्त्र शास्त्रमा, शक्तिशाली र सूक्ष्म ध्वनि ऊर्जा मानिन्छ। यी मन्त्रलाई विशिष्ट उद्देश्य प्राप्त गर्न प्रयोग गरिन्छ, जस्तै आत्मिक जागरण, मानसिक शान्ति, स्वास्थ्य सुधार, र विभिन्न प्रकारका साधनामा सफलता।

ध्यान दिनु पर्ने कुरा:

बीज मन्त्रको सही उच्चारण अत्यन्त महत्त्वपूर्ण हुन्छ। गुरुको मार्गदर्शनमा मात्र मन्त्रको प्रयोग गर्दा उत्तम परिणाम मिल्छ। नियमितता र श्रद्धाले मात्र मन्त्र जपको प्रभाव अनुभव गर्न सकिन्छ। तसर्थ, बीज मन्त्र एक सूक्ष्म तर शक्तिशाली साधन हो, जसले मानिसको जीवनमा सकारात्मक परिवर्तन ल्याउन सक्छ।

निष्कर्ष

बीज मन्त्रहरू साधना, ध्यान, र आत्मिक प्रगतिको लागि अमूल्य साधन हुन्। सही उच्चारण र विधिपूर्वक जप गर्दा यसले व्यक्तिको जीवनमा सकारात्मक परिवर्तन ल्याउन सक्छ ।

३. तन्त्रमन्त्र

यिनीहरू तान्त्रिक साधनामा प्रयोग गरिन्छ। विशेष विधि र नियमको पालना गरेर यी मन्त्र उच्चारण गरिन्छ।

उदाहरण:

सूर्य (Surya) ॐ ह्रां ह्रीं ह्रौं सः सूर्याय नमः। (सूर्यको कृपा, आत्मबल, र स्वास्थ्यका लागि)

चन्द्रमा (Chandra) ॐ श्रां श्रीं श्रौं सः चन्द्राय नमः। (मनको शान्ति, मानसिक स्थिरता र भावनात्मक सन्तुलनका लागि)

शनि (Shani) ॐ प्रां प्रीं प्रौं सः शनैश्चराय नमः। (धैर्य, अनुशासन, र प्रतिकूलताबाट मुक्ति पाउन)

जप विधि

प्रत्येक मन्त्रलाई बिहान वा साँझ शुद्ध ठाउँमा बसि कम्तिमा १०८ पटक (एक माला) जप गर्नु लाभकारी हुन्छ। मन्त्र जप गर्दा ध्यान केन्द्रित र सही उच्चारण गर्नुपर्ने हुन्छ।

४. जपमन्त्र

ध्यान र आत्मसुधारका लागि लगातार जप गर्नुपर्ने मन्त्र।

उदाहरण:

ॐ नमः शिवाय ।

ॐ नमो भगवते वासुदेवाय।

हरे राम हरे राम राम राम हरे हरे,

हरे कृष्ण हरे कृष्ण कृष्ण कृष्ण हरे हरे।।

५. गायत्री मन्त्र

विशेष प्रकारको मन्त्र, जसलाई ब्रह्माण्डीय शक्तिको आह्वान र ध्यानका लागि उपयोग गरिन्छ।

यो मन्त्र यस प्रकार छ:

ॐ भूर्भुवः स्वः।

तत्सवितुर्वरेण्यं।

भर्गो देवस्य धीमहि।

धियो यो नः प्रचोदयात्॥

अर्थ:

ॐ: परमात्माको नाम, सर्वोच्च ऊर्जा।

भूः: पृथ्वी लोक।

भुवः: अन्तरिक्ष लोक।

स्वः: स्वर्ग लोक।

तत्: त्यो (परमात्मा)।

सवितुः: सूर्य (जसले सबैलाई जीवन प्रदान गर्दछ)।

वरेण्यं: पूजा गर्न योग्य।

भर्गः: दिव्य तेज।

देवस्य: दिव्यताको।

धीमहि: हामी ध्यान गरौं।

धियो: बुद्धि।

यः: जो।

नः: हाम्रो।

प्रचोदयात्: प्रेरणा दिनुहोस्।

पूर्ण अर्थ: हामी त्यो परम दिव्य शक्ति, सूर्यदेवको तेजमा ध्यान गर्दछौं, जसले हाम्रो बुद्धिलाई सही मार्गमा प्रेरणा दिन सकून्।

६. संकीर्तनमन्त्र

यी मन्त्रहरू सामूहिक रूपमा कीर्तन वा भजनको रूपमा गाइन्छन्।

७. कवचमन्त्र

देवताको कृपा प्राप्त गरेर सुरक्षाका लागि जपिने मन्त्र।

उदाहरण:

शिव कवच

नारायण कवच

देवी कवच

८. शान्तिमन्त्र

मन र वातावरण शान्त राख्न प्रयोग गरिने मन्त्र।

उदाहरण:

द्यौः शान्तिः, अन्तरिक्षं शान्तिः, पृथिवी शान्तिः, आपः शान्तिः, ओषधयः शान्तिः।

वनस्पतयः शान्तिः, विश्वेदेवाः शान्तिः, ब्रह्म शान्तिः, सर्वं शान्तिः।

शान्तिरेव शान्तिः, सा मा शान्तिरेधि। ॐ शान्तिः शान्तिः शान्तिः॥

यसको अर्थ: स्वर्गमा शान्ति होस्, अन्तरिक्षमा शान्ति होस्, पृथ्वीमा शान्ति होस्। पानीमा शान्ति होस्, औषधिहरूमा शान्ति होस्, वनस्पतिहरूमा शान्ति होस्। सामूहिक देवताहरूमा शान्ति होस्, ब्रह्ममा शान्ति होस्, सम्पूर्ण सृष्टिमा शान्ति होस्। शान्तिमै शान्ति छ, त्यही शान्ति मेरोमा वृद्धि होस्। ॐ शान्ति शान्ति शान्ति।

नोट: मन्त्रको सही उच्चारण र विधिपूर्वक जप अत्यन्त महत्त्वपूर्ण मानिन्छ।

The Mystical Power of ‘OM’!

The Mystical Power of ‘OM’!

The single syllable “Om” is one of the most potent and time-honored sounds known to humanity. It’s considered the original sound, the cosmic hum, and the cornerstone of various spiritual traditions, notably Hinduism, Buddhism, Sikhism, and Jainism. This ancient sound is thought to be the genesis of all existence, the vibration that birthed the universe.

The sacred syllable “Om” is seen as the very essence of the universe, a passage to higher consciousness. In practices like yoga and meditation, chanting “Om” is believed to cultivate mental clarity, tranquility, and a deep connection with the cosmos.

This exploration delves into the multifaceted meaning of “Om,” its philosophical roots, and its practical relevance in contemporary life.

The Origin of “Om”

The roots of “Om” can be traced back millennia to the sacred Indian texts like the Vedas and Upanishads. The Mandukya Upanishad, a cornerstone of Indian philosophy, delves into the profound meaning of “Om.” It posits that “Om” encapsulates the past, present, and future, transcending the confines of time.

In Sanskrit, “Om” comprises three sounds: A, U, and M. Each sound carries symbolic weight:

  • A (Ah): Symbolizes the waking state, representing the physical world and external reality.
  • U (Oo): Symbolizes the dream state, representing the inner world of thoughts, imagination, and aspirations.
  • M (Mm): Symbolizes the deep sleep state, a realm beyond thought where the mind and ego dissolve.

The Benefits of “Om” Chanting

Regularly chanting “Om” can offer different benefits.

  1. Stress Reduction: Chanting “Om” activates the parasympathetic nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation. The vibrations resonate through the body, calming the mind and easing anxiety.
  2. Emotional Balance: The vibrations of “Om” are believed to harmonize the body’s energy centers, or chakras, particularly the third eye and crown chakras. This fosters emotional stability and inner peace.
  3. Enhanced Focus and Awareness: The repetitive nature of chanting “Om” improves concentration by grounding the mind. This makes it an effective tool for mindfulness and productivity.
  4. Improved Respiratory Health: Chanting “Om” involves deep, rhythmic breathing, enhancing lung capacity and oxygenation. This has a positive impact on overall health and vitality.
  5. Physical Well-being: The rhythmic nature of “Om” chanting slows breathing, activating the parasympathetic nervous system, which reduces heart rate and blood pressure. Diaphragmatic breathing, a key component of “Om” chanting, improves oxygen exchange and relaxation.
  6. Spiritual and Psychological Benefits: The repetitive chanting of “Om” induces a meditative state, often described as deeply peaceful and transcendent. Many practitioners report feelings of unity and connection to the universe.

“Om” in Modern Context

While “Om” has roots in ancient spiritual traditions, its significance continues to resonate in modern life. Here are a few ways “Om” is integrated into contemporary practices:

  1. Mindfulness Practices: “Om” chanting is frequently incorporated into mindfulness programs to help individuals achieve presence and awareness. 
  2. Sound Healing: Sound therapy and healing practices often utilize “Om” as a core element due to its resonant frequency. These practices harness the healing power of sound to restore balance in the body and mind.
  3. Corporate Wellness Programs: As mindfulness gains popularity in the corporate world, “Om” chanting is being introduced in workplace wellness programs to reduce stress and enhance focus among employees.
  4. Artistic Expressions: “Om” has inspired countless works of art, music, and literature, symbolizing spirituality and universal harmony. 

Challenges and Misinterpretations

Despite its profound significance, “Om” is sometimes misunderstood or commercialized, diminishing its spiritual essence. Practitioners and enthusiasts should approach it with respect and understanding, acknowledging its cultural and philosophical origins.

Additionally, some individuals may find the practice of “Om” chanting daunting or unfamiliar. Educating people about its benefits and providing supportive environments can help bridge this gap.

The Science behind “Om”

  1. Vibrational Harmony:

The sound of “Om” resonates at a frequency of around 136.1 Hz, aligning with the Earth’s natural frequency, known as the Schumann Resonance. This vibrational harmony is believed to bring the mind and body into sync with nature.

The chanting itself involves three parts: “Aaa,” originating from the abdomen and chest; “Ooo,” resonating in the throat; and “Mmm,” buzzing in the head and brain. These vibrations stimulate various parts of the body, including the vagus nerve, promoting relaxation and stress reduction.

  1. Brain Activation and Calming:

Chanting “Om” induces alpha brain waves, associated with a relaxed, meditative state. It also calms the amygdala, a part of the brain linked to stress and emotions, leading to reduced anxiety and emotional regulation. Regular chanting can even create new neural pathways, enhancing focus and mental clarity.

  1. Scientific Evidence:

Neuroimaging studies, such as MRI, show decreased activity in the default mode network (DMN), a brain network associated with mind-wandering, during “Om” chanting. EEG studies reveal increased theta and alpha activity, reflecting relaxation and alertness.

More than just a sound, the “Om” mantra is a portal to self-understanding and cosmic consciousness. Its enduring relevance in spiritual practices, combined with its scientifically validated benefits, makes “Om” a potent tool for personal transformation.

By incorporating “Om” into meditation, yoga, or daily mindfulness, individuals can cultivate greater peace, clarity, and connection with the world around them. In our fast-paced, often chaotic modern world, “Om” serves as a reminder of the tranquility and interconnectedness that lie at the core of existence.

Check out our Free 108 Om Chanting session!

Yoga for Relaxation of the Body and Mind!

Yoga for Relaxation of the Body and Mind!

There are so many things to do nowadays that it leaves people exhausted in their day-to-day lives. Many of us have difficulties sleeping, suffer from back pain, feel tight in various parts of the body, and even suffer from anxiety.

While sweating through heavy workout sessions is given the topmost priority, most people are forgetful about their energy levels and fail to pacify their limitless thoughts. Integrating a simple yoga practice into our daily routine helps us with just that; bringing peace, stillness, and relaxation into our lives.

Yoga began as a spiritual practice but it has gradually become the combination of mental and physical exercises that helps to relax and battle off stress and enjoy the infinite health benefits it beholds. It focuses on breathing practice (Pranayama) and mindful movements (Asanas) to calm down the body and mind by triggering and activating the body’s parasympathetic nervous system. This practice helps to increase flexibility, stretch and strengthen muscles, release tension, and ease pain by focusing on thoughts and attention.

A small 2020 study in adult men suggested that yoga stretches lower cortisol levels and has a positive effect on parasympathetic nerve activity, which encourages relaxation.

Different yoga poses help relax the body and mind, reduce stress, and cultivate inner calm. Practicing yoga regularly builds strength, increases awareness, and creates harmony between the body and the mind. Above all, it involves relaxation techniques that help alleviate pain, manage stress, and reduce anxiety while improving physical and overall health.

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Here are a few poses and their benefits to get you started!

1. Child’s Pose (Balasana)

This pose helps relax the neck, shoulders, and back muscles as well as calm the nervous system. It creates an inward focus and restores energy. Other than that, it activates the vagus nerve which is responsible for digestion, heart rate, and the immune system. For women, during period cramps, this is the best posture to relieve pain and uneasiness.

2. Head to Knee Forward Bend (Janushirsasana)

This forward bending pose stretches the hamstrings, back, and shoulders and relieves back pain. It is a stress management pose as it presses and stimulates abdominal organs to help relax the body.

3. Cobra Pose (Bhujangasana)

It is one of the best backbend poses that strengthen the back and upper body, neck, chest, abdomen, and groin. This pose is also best for gyno problems. It is also helpful for improving metabolism and digestion. Not only that, but it energizes and mobilizes the spine and promotes relaxation.

Conclusively, integrating yoga practice into our daily lives is worth giving a try as it carries endless mental, physical, and spiritual benefits which can only be experienced by actually starting it. Making yoga a lifestyle will, for sure, yield inner calm and peace in the long run. Thus, this practice is a boon for those who wish to relax their body and mind for healthy and happy living.

How can Yogipreneurs use Digital Marketing?

How can Yogipreneurs use Digital Marketing?

Digital marketing is a lot like practicing yoga. At the end of the day, it comes down to constant improvement and iteration.

If you stay in your comfort zone, your mind, body, and soul will never advance. Your physical and spiritual bodies must be stretched and challenged in order to change from their present state, so you must be constantly motivated to show up and take on new challenges.

Similarly, constant vigilance is required for your marketing plan. It’s essential to regularly experiment with different approaches and techniques and measure how your audience reacts to them.

You’ll become a better yogi and marketer only if you understand the necessity of variation and improvement both on the mat and on the web.

Anyhoo, here are a few tips on how yogipreneurs can use digital marketing to improve their digital presence.

1. Create a Social Media Business Page

Start spending time on Facebook, where your students are catching up. A business page gives you information about your audience, the possibility to advertise your lessons, and the chance to keep your students informed of any latest events.

2. Become (socially) visual

Create visual content for your website, blogs, and social media by creating a free Canva account and experimenting with all the graphic design tools, templates, and inspiration available to you.

3. Build a yoga website

You will be able to attract more students with even a simple one-page website that includes your teaching schedule.

4. Share moments

Get used to snapping moments throughout the day that can be shared on social media. Start building a bank of images to make the process of posting easier.

5. Display insight

The benefit of using digital technology is that everything can be monitored, traced, and supported by data. Enter the data to begin learning more about your audience and students.

6. Keep in touch

Make sure everything is connected. Links to all of your social media profiles should be available on your website. Also, don’t forget to cross-promote, such as by sending all of your Facebook admirers a link to your Instagram account.

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