Before
going into the details of mantra vijnana let us focus here on the sonic power
of some basic vowels used in the Sanskrit and Devanagari Languages. Whatever be
the type of our language, we do come across with a large number of such accents
(and their phonemes) or various combinations of these in our day-to-day
conversations. Because of the special sonic effects, the proper use of the
basic vowels and syllables of the ancient Sanskrit language can also be
regarded as an elementary exercise in Sabda Yoga.
The
properties of some of these basic vowels are as follows:
ü Pronunciation
of this vowel has a direct, though subtle, impact on the heart. The pumping
action of the heart -especially its operation of exhaling pure blood - is
supported by this accent. Repeated loud enunciation of this vowel at constant
amplitude helps regulate the supply of pure blood from the heart to various
part of the body. In mantra vijnana this vowels is regarded to possess creative
power.
ü The
sound of this vowel affects the chest and the upper parts of the lungs. Its
impact strengthens the upper ribs, helps clean the digestive canal and also
energizes the mind. Controlled and repeated enunciation of this vowel would be
very useful towards the cure of asthma and chronic cough.
ü Stretched
pronunciation of these has a direct positive effect on the throat and its
connections with the brain. This activates upper chamber of the heart. Cleaning
of the respiratory tract and the intestines is performed by regular stimulation
by the continuous sound of these sharp vowels. People suffering from chronic
headaches or cardiac ailments should benefit from consistently expressing the
repeated 'chanting' of these vowels. Short-tempered or mentally depressed
persons are also advised to follow the practice of rhythmic reaction of these
accents.
ü Pronunciation
of these vowels has direct positive impact on the organs in the middle and the
lower part of the body - namely, the liver, stomach and the lower intestine. It
reduces the weight of the belly. Constipation can be cured by regular
recitation of these vowels over a continuous stretch of time. Woman suffering
from the diseases of the abdomen would also benefit from such exercises.
ü The
sound of these vowels has an impact on the kidney and also on the junction of
the throat and the respiratory tract. Repeated pronunciation of these vowels
helps cure of renal (urinary) diseases. Rhythmic enunciation of these
strengthens the soft membrane inside the vocal cord and hence it is very useful
for the singers or teachers who have to sing/speak, at a constant pace, for
relatively longer intervals of time.
ü The
natural functioning of genital organs and the muscles and veins of its
peripherals are strengthened by the sound of these vowels. The regular practice
of chanting these vowels also stimulates the central part of the chest and is
useful in supporting the cure of pneumonia and pleurisy.
ü Inhaling
of oxygen with the humming sound of this vowel indeed helps increase one's
vital energy. It also activates healthy increase in the RBCs and purifies the
blood. The practice of Pranayam is an integral part of all yoga exercises;
prolonged pronunciation of 'am' is the root of perfection in the former. While
pronouncing the 'a' part of this vowel our lips and mouth are kept open and the
lips are closed at the time of 'm'…… This should be practiced with a feeling
that - all our evils have gone out in the first phase and we have closed their
re-entry in the second phase. Regular practice of this simple exercise is very
beneficial for psychological uplifting too.
ü Its
pronunciation titillates the tongue and the upper frontal part of the palate
and created useful conduction effects in the brain. Recitation of this vowel
under deep meditation stimulates the secretion of specific hormones that
regulate the harmonious functioning of all components/organs of the body. Open
laughter also serves repeated enunciation of this vowel. This is the secret of
the 'laughing exercise' being so effective a remedy against stress and
depression.
Apart
from inducing positive effects on the body and the mind, specific practices of
chanting these basic vowels (accents) help spiritual development as well. These
aspects are covered in the context of Nada Yoga and Music.
No comments:
Post a Comment