Mantra: OM Nama Shivaya
- Om – Before creation, there was a void where no vibration existed. Out of this void came the vibration known as the sound of creation – OM.
- Namah- This literally translates as: to bow.
- Shivaya- This is Shiva, but it also means the Inner Self.
The mantra means: I bow to the Inner Self.
So you can use an additional intention when you chant it, if you are drawn to do so – you can intend for the sound to connect you to your Inner Self or your Inner Guru on a new level. It is much better to form a deep and abiding connection to this part of you rather than always look for wisdom and knowledge form an outside source.
There is a visualisation you can add while chanting – as you repeat the mantra, you can visualize yourself bowing to your true Inner Self, honouring them.
To Chant the Mantra
Please ground firmly before you start to chant because it will take you upwards very, very quickly!!! Also, sit with your spine straight so the energy can move freely in your system
Pronounciation: OM na ma shee vi ee ah
Direct the sound to resonate: the front of the midbrain/eyes with the intention of connecting to universal consciousness
Set your intention, take a breath and make your sound – doing any version of the mantra that appeals to you.
If you are guided to so, intend for the sound to resonate the brow chakra or even the crown as the mantra is a connection to the universal consciousness.
But, in the end, just do whatever feels right for you when you start to chant.
You might like to try all three and see how they all feel and work with the one that resonates the most with you. It is said to bestow deep spiritual experiences
You can also find versions of the chant on youtube if you feel you want to chant along with someone else rather than just do it on your own. Just find a version that you like and give it a go.
If you would like further information, can I recommend this article:
The Energetic Field of Om Namah Shivaya by Rodney Birney MD
https://www.scienceandnonduality.com/conversations/the-energetic-field-of-om-namah-shivaya/
This is my favourite quote from it: “The chant Om Namah Shivaya is a love song, to ourselves. A love song we sing to our own deepest inner nature. In this song we recognize that we are the source, like a hologram, a piece of god that also represents the whole. In the Siddha yoga lineage (from which this chant comes) it is considered to be the king of all mantras. The intelligent field of conscious energy of which the universe is made, and concentrates into the dense form we know of as matter, is represented by the god Shiva. Shiva is the totality.”
Have fun!
Bright Blessings!
Gailx