The Om Chanting: Exploring the Neurophysiological Correlates of Mantra Repetition and Altered States of Consciousness

Om (AUM) chanting has resonated through spiritual practices for millennia: Spirituality, Neuroscience and Consciousness researchers all agree that this ancient practice has many benefits and induces Altered States of Consciousness.

So how can it benefit you?

Chanting ‘Om’ repeatedly creates a focused mental activity. This repetitive chanting entrains your brainwaves… synchronizing their electrical activity.

Alpha & Theta Waves… Pathways to Inner Peace

The science shows that chanting Om promotes the dominance of Alpha and Theta waves.

Alpha waves are the ‘flow’ states, effortless calm wakefulness… relaxation and stress reduction. Theta waves are the meditation states, increased focus and access to your deeper mind or subconscious.

Chanting Om creates a neurophysiological entrainment of brainwaves conducive to experiencing inner peace and heightened awareness… ultimately leading to Samadhi, Satori, Enlightenment…

Om Chanting & Limbic Modulation

The Limbic System is at the very core of our emotional processing… this complex neural-network includes: the amygdala, hippocampus, and hypothalamus, think of it as your ’emotional control center’.

Chanting Om modulates the activity within the limbic system, stimulating the release of Endogenous Opioids promoting a sense of emotional well-being and inner calm.

The Amygdala is often referred to as the brain’s fear center, the fight-or-flight response. Chanting a mantra deactivates the Amygdala’s alarm system, reducing it’s sensitivity to perceived threats… promoting instead safety and relaxation.

The Vagus Nerve is a main part of your parasympathetic nervous system. Mantra Chanting increases relaxation and calming feelings, and chanting often involves deep, diaphragmatic breathing… this stimulates the Vagus Nerve.

The Hypothalamus controls the pituitary gland, this is the Master Gland of the Endocrine System… it regulates the release of hormones… Cortisol (the stress hormone) and oxytocin (the love hormone). Chanting influences the Hypothalamus, decreasing cortisol levels and releasing oxytocin ❤️

AUM: What and How

The three sounds ‘A’, ‘U’ and ‘M’ represent: the creation, preservation, and destruction (aspects) of the Universe. Also symbolizing: past, present and future. The three sounds also symbolize the three states of consciousness: waking, dreaming and deep sleep.

Inhale deeply through your nose…

As you exhale, slowly allow “Om” (in a resonant tone) to flow out.

The ‘O’ part of the sound sound starts deep in your abdomen… rising through your chest as you reach the ‘U’ sound… finally the ‘M’ resonating through closed lips… gently.

While chanting, focus on the vibration it creates within your body… by directing your attention inward to the physical sensations of vibrations, it shifts your focus away from the external input, inwardly helping to create states of heightened awareness.

Some people use Mala Beads (prayer beads) to count the number of chants without words… each time they complete a chant, gently moving one bead between their thumb and fingers.

Give it a go… until feelings of BLISS fill you and your body.

Happy Chanting.