AUM (or OM) is often called the “sound of the universe”, but what does that really mean? If you’ve ever felt a little freaked out about chanting it in yoga class, you’re not alone. I felt a little weird at first too! But over time, I learned to love the vibration, especially when chanting in a big group.
Beyond just a sound, AUM carries deep symbolic meaning and has real physiological benefits. Let’s break it down so you can understand why it’s such an essential part of yoga and meditation.
What Does AUM Mean? (Infographic Breakdown)
The AUM symbol represents four states of consciousness, as explained in the Mandukya Upanishad:
A (Waking State, Vaishvanara, Jagrat): The "aaahhh" sound represents our conscious mind and experience of the physical world.
U (Dream State, Taijasa, Swapna): Pronounced like the "o" sound in "home". It signifies the subtle world or our active unconscious.
M (Deep Sleep State, Prajna, Susupti): The "mmm" sound represents our latent unconscious, a state of deep rest.
Silence (Samadhi, Turiya): The pause after chanting AUM represents pure consciousness and ultimate stillness—yoga’s true purpose.
Check out the infographic below for a visual guide to AUM’s deeper meaning:
How to Chant AUM: The 4 Parts of the Sound
Chanting AUM is more than just repeating a word—it’s about feeling the vibration in your body:
"A": Pronounced "aaahhh," this sound starts deep in your chest, vibrating in your solar plexus.
"U": Sounds like the “o” in "home." You’ll feel it resonate in your throat (try placing your hand on your throat to feel the buzz!).
"M": A deep humming "mmmm" sound that you’ll notice in your head and forehead.
Silence: After chanting, pause to feel the lingering vibration and the stillness that follows.
Why People Chant AUM: Traditional & Experiential Benefits
Chanting AUM has been an integral part of yoga and meditation for centuries. Many practitioners (including myself!) describe feeling:
More centered and focused after chanting
A deep sense of calm and relaxation
A connection to their breath and body
A resonance or vibration that helps quiet the mind
While some believe the sound waves help regulate the nervous system, others simply enjoy the sense of peace and unity that AUM brings—especially when chanted in a group.
Even if you don’t chant, simply listening can create a grounding effect, helping you settle into your practice.
Do You HAVE to Chant in Yoga? Nope!
If chanting feels uncomfortable, you don’t have to do it. As a yoga teacher, I’ve led AUM chants where some students chose to just listen—and here’s a secret: Even if you don’t chant, you still receive the vibrational benefits from the group!
So, whether you join in or simply observe, AUM can still enhance your yoga practice.
Do You Chant in Your Yoga Practice?
Now, I’d love to hear from you!
🔹 Do you chant AUM in your yoga or meditation practice?
🔹 Have you ever felt a shift in energy when chanting?
🔹 If you’ve never tried it, what’s holding you back?
Drop a comment below and let’s talk about it! 💬👇
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