Ommm

AUM*

I have to admit that I have trouble "Oming." You know, that beautiful, universe-enhancing, joy-creating sound of Om. I get embarrassed when it comes time to chant Om, whether it is at the beginning of class or the end. What if I am louder than everyone else? What if my timing is off and I am the only one chanting? Then, inevitably, my voice cracks and falters, I lose my steam and my Om skips away from my throat, like it shouldn't have been there in the first place. Once in a blue moon I have the full feeling of the word in my body. It sends vibrations down my spine and I can hear and feel my voice filling up the room with the rich noise. In those rare moments I feel invigorated and strong. The majority of the time it is the opposite.

This is something that I have thought about a lot (read: too much). I am going to eventually have to lead other people in the chanting of Om. I will have to be the loudest one and have the confidence to not care if no one else is joining me or not. It is a tiny hurdle to overcome.

In writing this post, I realized I can't honestly give the definition of Om (or AUM). I found the following in "Light on Pranayama" by B.K.S Iyengar (this is a short passage on the pages that are devoted to AUM in this book):

*AUM (Om) conveys concepts of omnipotence and universality. It contains everything that is auspicious as well as awe-inspiring. It is a symbol of serenity and majestic power. AUM is the everlasting spirit, the highest aim. When its connotations are fully known, all longings are fulfilled. It is the surest means of salvation and the supreme help. It connotes the fullness of human life, thought and worship. It is the immortal sound. Those who enter and take refuge become immortal.

Wow. No wonder I have struggled!