|
Elements of the Science of Vowels |
 |
 |
 |
|
ThoughtRevolution -
Jap and Meditation
|
Before going into the details of mantra vijnaana 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 SabdaYoga.
The properties of some of these basic vowels are as follows:
a: 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 vijnaana this vowel is regarded to possess creative power.
a: 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.
i - i: 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 exercising the repeated ‘chanting’ of these vowels. Short-tempered or mentally depressed persons are also advised to follow the practice of rhythmic recitation of these accents.
u - u: 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. Women suffering from the diseases of the abdomen would also benefit from such exercises.
e - ai: 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 membranes 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.
o - au: 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.
am: 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 pranaayama 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 practised with a feeling that – all our evils have gone out in the first phase and we have closed their reentry in the second phase. Regular practice of this simple exercise is very beneficial for psychological uplifting too.
ah : Its pronunciation titillates the tongue and the upper frontal part of the palate and creates 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.
|
