131. Ommm, your obstacles away.
In the Yoga Sutras 1:23 to 1:29, Patanjali lays the groundwork for practices that connect the mind and body, ultimately leading us toward a deeper understanding of the self and a state of inner peace. These verses focus on the practice of surrender, mantra japa, and how working with the sound of OM (Pranava) can help quiet the mind and cultivate higher states of awareness. In these foundational teachings, Patanjali offers a range of tools that not only deepen our spiritual practice but also provide practical means for reducing the impact of stress and anxiety in our daily lives.
In previous discussions, we talked about the mind-body connection and the importance of Pranavaha, the sound vibration of OM. This sacred sound is a powerful tool for aligning the mind and body. When we add affirmations to this practice, combined with the repetition of OM, we engage both the mind and the nervous system in a way that can help re-wire our thinking. The combination of an uplifting affirmation and the vibratory power of OM creates a potent synergy that influences our mental state and emotional well-being. Affirmations help to plant positive seeds in the mind, while OM anchors us in the body, allowing us to feel grounded and present.
In today’s world, cortisol levels—the body’s primary stress hormone—are often at an all-time high due to the constant demands of modern life. While many of us look for quick fixes or distractions to manage stress, some of the simplest and most effective practices have been passed down through ancient wisdom. Affirmations and the chanting of OM are just such practices. They offer a natural, accessible way to lower stress, reduce anxiety, and calm the mind. Why not try these ancient techniques, especially when they are so simple and easy to incorporate into daily life?
Yoga Sutra 1:29 speaks directly to the benefits of working with OM. In this sutra, Patanjali highlights the transformative effects of chanting OM regularly. The Sanskrit verse reads: "Tataḥ pratyak-cetanādhigamo'py antarāyābhāvaś ca" (ततः प्रत्यक्चेतनाधिगमोऽप्यन्तरायाभावश्च), which translates as, "From this practice, all obstacles disappear, and simultaneously dawns knowledge of the inner self." This is a profound teaching. Through the consistent practice of chanting OM, we gradually dissolve the obstacles (antarayas) that cloud our minds and prevent us from seeing our true nature. As these obstacles fall away, we begin to access a deeper knowledge of the self—our innermost essence.
This practice is about more than just calming the mind; it is a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Chanting OM connects us with our inner selves, providing a way to cultivate self-awareness and inner wisdom. However, as with any path of growth, there are obstacles. The path to self-understanding, as Patanjali tells us, is not without challenges. These obstacles, which we will explore in greater detail, are the mental and emotional blocks that hold us back from reaching our full potential. They are part of the process, but through consistent practice, we learn to overcome them.
In the next episode, we will delve deeper into these obstacles and discuss how they show up in our lives, as well as ways to work through them. For now, consider how simple practices like affirmations and chanting OM can help clear the path toward a more balanced and peaceful state of mind. With dedication and patience, these tools offer a profound way to reduce stress, connect with the body, and gain a deeper understanding of the self. OMMM.
