What is the sound you make when you
slip into a warm bathtub at the end of
the day?
What is the sound you make when you
arrive home after a long journey?
Aaaaaah…
This hissing sound, followed by a long Ā
sound, is the root sound of peace in
Sanskrit. It’s a special language for
mantra because the sound of the word
is it’s meaning. We explore that in much
more nerdy detail in the free e-course; it
has many deep implications!
For now, the word Śāntiḥ is a perfect
example of the harmony between
sound, experience, and meaning.
Let’s take the next combination the N +
T in Śāntiḥ… When you say it, touch the
tip of your tongue to the back of your
upper front teeth. This stimulates a
more sensitive part of your palate than
the spot you’d normally touch on an N
or a T (in the English language). From
that sensitivity, a different sensation of
connection (and maybe pleasure?)
might arise for you. This heightened
sensation is a key to opening your heart
to a greater sense of aliveness, from
which you can add passion to your
practice.
Now, for the I sound. The I sound in
Śāntiḥ is short and sweet.
Lastly, let’s explore the Ḥ sound. When
you say Śāntiḥ, let all of your breath out
at the end. (It doesn't have to be loud,
just expel the air with a little push from
your belly.) Give your all, give your life’s
breath without reservation to the
prayer. How does it feel to leave nothing
behind?
Peace is worth it! Aum Śāntiḥ!
(Join the e-course at
www.mantrasforpeace.com for FREE
audio and video mantra learning
resources!)
Dec. 2018 www.yogicherald.com
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