The Vedas recognize four stages of the manifestation of sound.
(i) Vaikhari: The grossest form of sound, Vaikhari is normal audible sound, including speech.
(ii) Madhyama: More subtle is Madhyama, a whispered sound with no audible effect.
(iii) Pashyanti: As you move within, you experience Pashyanti. These are mental sounds such as songs in the head or a dream. It is also the visualization of sounds such as silently listening to your thoughts or the silent repetition of a mantra.
(iv) Para: Finally you reach Para or transcendental sound.
The basic aim of any form of meditation, including the mantra-based meditation, is to induce certain sympathetic frequencies in the oscillation of neurotransmitters, coherently and synergistically, in order to achieve the desirable effects: like achieving calmness, controlled blood pressure, clarity of thoughts, immunity from outside disturbance, achieving restful alertness, happiness, peace, bliss, and enlightenment.
So, the Brain waves are produced by the synchronized Electrical pulses from a large number of neurotransmitters Communicating with each other simultaneously. Broadly speaking, there are the following five types of brain waves to be mentioned in the present context:
(i) Gamma waves: for inspiration, higher learning, and focus. Their frequencies are > 40 Hz.
(ii) Beta waves: for alertness, concentration, and cognition. Their frequencies are in the range of 13 – 40 Hz.
(iii) Alpha waves: for visualization, relaxation, and creativity. Their frequencies are in the range of 7 – 13 Hz.
(iv) Theta waves: for meditation, intuition, and memory. Their frequencies are in the range of 4–7 Hz
(v)This is pre-manifest sound in its subtlest state as light or pure silence. This is the root of the potential of all sounds, sometimes referred to as the ―unstuck sound.
The important thing is that as we go from various levels of sound from Vaikhari to Para, not only the intensity of sound changes, simultaneously its frequency can also change thereby synchronizing with the sympathetic nervous system of the meditator.
Mantras: Ancient Tools for Inner Transformation and Healing
Dr.Ashutosh Upadhyay Mantras are not mere strings of words or rhythmic sounds; they are profound…
Beeja Mantras and the Seven Chakras in Hatha Yoga
Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyay In Hatha Yoga, beeja mantras (“seed” mantras) are single-syllable sounds used to…
Meditation Techniques: Different Approaches to Om Mantra Meditation
Dr.Ashutosh Upadhyay Meditation, an ancient practice rooted in various cultural traditions, has gained immense popularity…
Om and Yoga Practice: Enhancing Your Spiritual Journey Through Sound
Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyay The practice of yoga is not just a series of physical postures;…
Historical Significance: The Origins of the Om Mantra in Ancient Texts
Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyay The Om mantra, a sacred syllable in the spiritual practices of Eastern…
Om Mantra in Daily Life: Practical Ways to Incorporate Om Chanting for Stress Relief and Mindfulness
Dr. Ashutosh Upadhyay In the fast-paced rhythm of modern life, finding moments of tranquility can…