THE PIJA MANTRA AND SPINAL HEALTH

The Bija Mantra and Spinal Health
 
Bija means seed and mantra, a Sanskrit word, relates to the mind. The Bija Mantra is the repetition of these seed sounds, LAM, VAM, RAM, YUM, HUM, AUM, AHH. We discovered how chanting these seed sounds can relax the body, focus the mind and restore energy flow.
 
These seed sounds associate with the seven major Chakras, or energy centers that run from the root of the spine up to the crown. Each seed sound in the Bija Mantra aligns with a specific chakra.

 LAM = ROOT (base of spine)
 VAM = SACRAL (lower abdomen)
 RAM = SOLAR PLEXUS (below the sternum)
 YUM = HEART
 HUM = THROAT
 AUM = THIRD EYE (center of forehead)
 AHH = CROWN (top of head)
 
Delving into guided meditation in tandem with the chanting to center and ground, we focused on the corresponding chakra as we chanted each seed sound. The practice is to hold the sound as long as possible, thus elongating the breath. Supporting a healthy nervous system. We started with two breaths, two chants for each seed sound. We also explored all seven sounds in one breath, chanting all seven sounds for the full exhale.
 
In addition we moved through several different stretches for spinal articulation and over all well being from crown to root. Exploring movements to increase mobility, release tension and compression and support strong posture and spinal strength. Including side bending, twisting, neck stretching and spinal waves.