Yoga introduced me to new ways of mediating, including
chanting Sanskrit mantras. This practice has been especially effective for me,
since Sanskrit has not been part of my language in everyday life. I have practiced mantras in English throughout my time on this planet (I can do this, God is with me, Breathe), which I've adopted or rejected depending on how I felt about it. Without a history influencing its meaning, I could study and practice a mantra in Sanskrit with purity. Through meditation, the mantra reveals itself, imprinting its authentic meaning over time.
Traditionally, a mantra is repeated 108 times. 108 is a
significant number in yoga, metaphysics, and ancient religions. It equals 9 (the highest single digit number)
multiplied by 12 (the basis for the duodecimal system which includes
measurement for time). There are many fascinating meanings and equations relating to 108,
which I encourage you to investigate. One significance of 108 is that each number
represents a state of being: oneness (1) nothingness (0) and everythingness or infinity (8).
The mantra “Om Shanti Om” is a simple mantra for peace. "Om" is recognized to mean all that is. Chanting om in a mantra serves like an
anchor, and may be the entire mantra. Many yoga classes begin and end with the sound of om. The sound of om is AUM, and it encompasses the beginning or creation
(A) the middle or sustaining (U) and the end or transformation (M). "Shanti" means
peace. Repeating this mantra infuses peace in all things. This starts with our Self, as the vibration
of the sound carries through the mouth into the body and outside the space of the body.
I often use Deva Premal’s recording of the mantra for
meditation, though just having it in the background as I go about my day is
powerful. I find value in listening to
mantras, even without complete awareness of its meaning. Positive vibrations of
sound that come from a source of love will always have a positive effect. Even
subtle elevations of vibration make a difference, and create a space for peace.
Beyond personal practices or belief systems, this simple mantra carries no
dogma and can be welcomed by anyone.
Peace to all.
