OM (AUM) Meditation

OM (AUM) is the unity of all sound/tone, it symbolises the unity of all existence. Meditation on OM calms and concentrates the mind, helps us understand the differences and unity of all.
 
 
The sacred syllable OM (AUM) is an all encompassing Mantra of Hindu philosophy. Inside a mantra cosmic energy is translated into a specific sound structure. Because of this and through constant repetition and concentration onto a mantra, the hidden truth and meaning of it will slowly reveals itself. This can be done by different exercises.
OM is a Nirguna mantra (Nir = without, guna = aspect) - it's essence is without form, end and time; beyond our sensuous perception.
 
 
Using OM as  mantra meditation
The sound structure of OM (AUM) includes all tones and vowels, and therefore all words and thoughts.
The vowel A begins to form in the end of the mouth, transforms into the U in the middle of the palate and ends in the M at the lips.
The singing of the OM frees the breath and starts moving Ki (vital life force). Correct and focussed singing will move our Ki through the spine and into our head.
 
Take a moment to come to yourself. Take deep, but relaxed breaths into your belly - imagining the belly expanding like a balloon to all sides with every in breath. Then release your breath gently.
Now start with an deep and relaxed in breath. At the end of this in breath begin to sound the A and focus on your Solar Plexus; while sounding the U pull the energy up along your spine to the point of the 3rd eye (between your eyebrows) - holding your focus there and sounding the M, which symbolizes infinity.
 
 
Using OM as 'tratak' meditation
'Tratak' is an exercise in which the eyes are fixed onto Sanskrit (sacred text).
Place an image of the sacred syllable OM in front of you at a distance of about two meters. This can be a printed image of the Sanskrit OM.
Sit down in a comfortable position - try to hold your back, neck and head in a straight line. It is helpful to imagine that your head is being gently pulled up at its crown. This will align your back and head without cramping up.
Take deep, but relaxed breaths into your belly.
Now concentrate and look at the image of the syllable OM without blinking. Your eyes will begin to tear after a while. Don't worry about it. Close your eyes and imagine OM in the space in between your eyebrows. When this inner image begins to fade, open your eyes again and focus your view onto the physical image in front of you. Continue with this exercise.
 
 
Your mind will soon begin to calm down, any nervousness will pass, your thoughts will slow and your eyes begin to relax.
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Your concentration will continuously deepen with these meditations, if practiced regularly.   

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"Associate the idea of infinity, eternity and immortality with the thought of the syllable OM. The humming of the bees, the sweet song of a nightingale, the seven sounds of the music scale. All sounds arise from OM, the sacred syllable of the Vedas."

  by Swami Sivananda