The cosmic symbol OM is considered to be the primal sound of which all things are created. It begins with the open"o" or "au" sound, then extends the "m" sound, creating a soothing hum in the throat and root of the nose.

In Yoga, there is a sound intonation, called a Mantra, that is used to begin/end a yoga practice. Mantras(from Sanskrit, man,"mind" tra, "guiding") are ancient, time-tested sounds that have been used to calm, focus, and uplift the mind. According to yogic understanding, and validated by science, the basic nature of everything in the universe is composed of vibration-consisting of sound, light and energy. When chanting a Mantra, every cell begins to vibrate at a similar energy frequency in the same way that a note struck on a stringed instrument will automatically vibrate on a second instrument.

Before beginning each yoga practice, use this Mantra as a centering technique to attune to your inner guidance.

Additional Mantras:

Om Shanti: The Sound of Peace

Om Namo Guru Dev Namo: I call on the Universal Spirit, I call on the ever-present guidance

Sat Nam:truth identity or truth is my essence

Om Mani Padme Hum:The sound of silence...the jewel in the lotus. The most important mantra from Tibet.It brings us in tune with the path of wisdom and transforms doubts, fears and other distractions, into pure energy and consciousness.

Om Namo Narayanaya: A mantra in awe of the Divine, expressing the devotion to Godliness.

Om Namo Bhagavate vasudevaya: Om is the name that inside me, which is aware of the Oneness of all things.