When we chant the Chakra (Sanskrit for “wheel”) sounds, we receive the benefits of singing and deep breathing, as well as the benefits of focusing on altruistic qualities, connecting with the elements, and processing the experiences of our lives. Each chakra is rich with symbolism and meaning. To chant the bija mantras (the seed syllable of each chakra), find a comfortable place, as you would for meditation. Use a tone that is natural and comfortable for your voice, not straining to be high or low in pitch. Let the sound rollout slowly for the duration of your breath. Give an equal part of the exhale to each part of the syllable and feel where they resonate. Alternatively, you can chant each sound repeatedly and rapidly. You can start at the base and move to the top, or start at the top and move to the base, or just pick one chakra and chant there. The important part is to practice mindfulness, or active listening, to your body and the sounds. There is not a wrong order in which to chant the bija mantras. Here are the Chakras, their element, energy, and action, from the root to the crown. Note: the “a” in “Lam”, and the other seed syllables, is pronounced with an “ah,” or sometimes, “uh,” sound.

• Muladhara. Root chakra. Chant “Lam.” Element: earth. Enegy: safe, grounded. Action: I am.
• Svadisthana. Sacral chakra. Chant “Vam”. Element: water. Energy: in the flow. Action: I feel.
• Manipura. Solar Plexus chakra. Chant “Ram”. Element: fire. Energy: self-mastery. Action: I do.
• Anahata. Heart chakra. Chant “Yam”. Element: air. Energy: love, the drum that needs no drummer. Action: I love.
• Vishuddha. Throat chakra. Chant “Ham”. Element: ether. Energy: creativity, expression, purification. Action: I speak.
• Ajna. Third eye chakra. Chant “Aum”. Element: transcendent. Energy: mind. Action: I see.
• Sahasrara. Crown chakra. Chant: instead of chanting, we just listen. Element: nothing, everything, and all that is between and beyond that. Action: I know.

Take some time to experiment with these sounds and symbols. How might they benefit you and the needs of your nervous system, and all your systems at a given time? I find chanting the bija mantras useful for dropping into my body, observing my experience, becoming present, cleansing my weaknesses, and harnessing my strengths. Keeping a journal of reflections on this activity may help you check in with yourself and your progress in life. Happy chanting!

– Patrick McAndrew