The Practice of Om Chanting
The practice of chanting Om (Pranava) can be combined with meditation and focused awareness. Through this approach, the mind, its various tendencies, the powers of the sense organs and the awareness of the practitioner are brought together at a single point of concentration.
The practitioner gradually brings the mind and inner awareness toward the Divine while continuing the chanting of Om in a calm and inwardly focused state. When the chanting, concentration and meditation are practiced together in this manner, it may be understood as Sangopang Pranava chanting.
Wherever Dharana or focused concentration is practiced, this method of combining concentration with the chanting of Om can also be applied.
Duration and Repetition of Om
Traditionally, one complete utterance of Om may be practiced with a measured and steady rhythm. If one repetition takes approximately one second, around 60 repetitions of Om may be completed in one minute.
As the practitioner becomes more familiar with the practice, the emphasis is not simply on increasing the number of repetitions, but on developing steadiness, awareness and control of the breath and mind.
In the traditional description of the first Pranayama, after the third stage of concentration associated with the Nasikagra (the tip or front of the nose), the movement of the breath may become progressively subtler. At this stage, the practitioner works gradually with the natural movement of Prana rather than forcing the breath.
The traditional practice describes extending the period for which the breath remains naturally steady outside the nostrils, progressing slowly according to the practitioner’s capacity. The text refers to the eventual ability to continue the Om practice for a very large number of repetitions, including 500 repetitions.
This progression should always be approached gradually and under appropriate guidance. Breath retention or prolonged breath control should never be forced. The purpose of the practice is to cultivate deeper concentration, awareness and inner steadiness—not to compete for a particular number of repetitions or duration.
Pranava Perspective
The deeper purpose of Om chanting is therefore not merely repetition of a sacred sound. Pranava can become a focal point through which sound, breath, concentration and inner awareness are brought together.
With regular and disciplined practice, the practitioner may gradually develop greater stillness and sensitivity toward the relationship between Prana, mind and awareness.