Om — the sound of the universe

Spiritual Approach: Attaining Anāhata Nāḍa • Brahman and the Primordial Sound: According to the Upaniṣads (especially the Māṇḍūkya Upaniṣad), Oṃ is the Śabda Brahman—the sound manifestation of the Absolute Reality (Brahman). It represents the totality of existence: A (waking state), U (dream state), M (deep sleep state), and the silence following the chant (the fourth, transcendent state, Turiya). • The Unstruck Sound (Anāhata Nāḍa): The deep, sustained resonance of the "M" sound directs the consciousness inward, aiming to merge the audible sound (āhata nāda) with the Anāhata Nāḍa—the "unstruck" primordial cosmic vibration of the universe, which is the sound of pure consciousness itself. The goal is to realize that the sound generated by the voice is simply a reflection of the eternal, silent sound inherent in the Supreme Brahmāṇḍīya Nāḍa (Cosmic Vibration). • Sealing the Practice: Chanting Oṃ at the end seals the benefits of the session. It unifies the practitioners' individual energies, concluding the session in a state of absorption (Samādhi) and peace (Śānti). Scientific Approach: Vagal and Brainwave Resonance • Vagal Nerve Stimulation: The low, deep, and sustained "M" sound produces vibrations that travel through the hard palate, activating and stimulating the Vagus nerve. The Vagus nerve is the main component of the parasympathetic nervous system, and its stimulation is scientifically linked to reducing heart rate variability, lowering stress hormones, and inducing deep relaxation. • Synchronization of Brainwaves: Studies using EEG have shown that Oṃ chanting can induce a state of synchronized Theta and Alpha brainwaves. Alpha waves are associated with a meditative, calm focus, and Theta waves are linked to deep relaxation and introspection. The sustained vibration helps to harmonize the two hemispheres of the brain, creating a sense of holistic peace. In essence, the opening prayer prepares the field of the mind, and the closing Oṃkār plants the seed of the practice's ultimate fruit—the experience of non-duality and unity with the Supreme Consciousness.