Chanting the sounds of the chakras

In yoga tradition, the body has seven main energy centers, called chakras, and each has its own sound. Chanting a chakra’s sound is a way to bring your attention to that part of the body and to the part of life the tradition says it governs. Here are the seven, from the base of the spine to the top of the head, each with a short practice and something to reflect on while you chant.

The root chakra: LAM (LUHM)

The root chakra, or Muladhara, sits at the base of the spine. In yoga tradition it’s the foundation of the energy system and governs our sense of security, grounding and basic survival. Its sound is “LAM,” pronounced LUHM.

Find a quiet place where you can sit comfortably, on the ground if you can. Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Imagine roots growing from your body deep into the earth. Chant “LAM” slowly and deeply, and feel the vibration travel down your spine into the ground beneath you. With each chant, picture a red glow at the base of your spine.

As you chant, notice your thoughts and feelings about security. If fears or anxieties come up, acknowledge them without judging them. Afterward, think about what helps you feel safe and grounded day to day: time in nature, a mindfulness practice, routines that give your life some structure.

The sacral chakra: VAM (VUHM)

The sacral chakra, or Svadhisthana, sits just below the navel. The tradition calls it the center of our emotions, creativity and sensuality. Its sound is “VAM,” pronounced VUHM.

Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and breathe deeply into the area just below your navel. Chant “VAM” in a steady rhythm and feel the vibration in your lower belly. Picture an orange light swirling there, getting brighter with each chant.

Pay attention to how you express yourself creatively and how you respond emotionally. Are there places where you feel blocked or held back? Let the chanting be a way to loosen them, then make time for whatever inspires you: painting, dancing, writing, any kind of art that feels like yours.

The solar plexus chakra: RAM (RUHM)

The solar plexus chakra, or Manipura, sits above the navel. In yoga tradition it’s the seat of personal power, confidence and self-discipline. Its sound is “RAM,” pronounced RUHM.

Sit comfortably with your hands resting on your upper belly. Close your eyes and take deep, steady breaths. Chant “RAM” and feel the vibration in your solar plexus. Picture a bright yellow sun there, getting warmer and stronger with each chant.

Reflect on your sense of your own power and worth. Where in your life do you feel powerless or unsure of yourself? Alongside the chanting, set yourself small goals you can actually reach. Meeting them builds discipline and a sense of accomplishment.

The heart chakra: YAM (YUM)

The heart chakra, or Anahata, sits at the center of the chest. The tradition describes it as the bridge between the physical and the spiritual, and it governs love, compassion and emotional balance. Its sound is “YAM,” pronounced YUM.

Sit comfortably and place your hands over your heart. Close your eyes and breathe deeply, focusing on the center of your chest. Chant “YAM” and feel the gentle vibration there. Picture a green light coming from your heart and spreading a little further with each chant.

Think about your relationships and how much love and compassion you have room for. Are there wounds or resentments you’re still carrying? Use the practice to work on forgiveness and empathy, for yourself and for others. Then do something kind for someone, and let yourself receive love from the people around you.

The throat chakra: HAM (HUM)

The throat chakra, or Vishuddha, sits at the throat. The tradition calls it the center of communication, self-expression and truth. Its sound is “HAM,” pronounced HUM.

Sit comfortably and rest your hands gently on your throat. Close your eyes and breathe deeply. Chant “HAM” and feel the vibration in your throat. Picture a bright blue light swirling there and clearing whatever feels stuck.

Reflect on how honestly you express yourself. Are there truths you’re holding back, or places where it’s hard to speak up? Practice saying what’s true in your conversations, and try other ways of expressing yourself, like writing or singing.

The third eye chakra: OM (OHM)

The third eye chakra, or Ajna, sits between the eyebrows. In yoga tradition it’s the center of intuition, insight and spiritual awareness. Its sound is “OM,” pronounced OHM.

Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and bring your attention to the space between your eyebrows. Take deep, steady breaths. Chant “OM” and feel the vibration through your head. Picture a deep indigo light there, getting brighter with each chant.

Consider how connected you feel to your own inner knowing. Where do you feel cut off from it or unsure? Spend time in meditation, journaling, or anything else that helps you listen inward.

The crown chakra: AH (AAH)

The crown chakra, or Sahasrara, sits at the top of the head. The tradition calls it the gateway to our connection with the divine and with our higher self. Its sound is “AH,” pronounced AAH.

Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and bring your attention to the top of your head. Take deep, calming breaths. Chant “AH” and feel the vibration at your crown. Picture a violet or white light there, and with each chant let it fill you with a sense of peace and of being part of something larger.

Reflect on what you believe and how connected you feel to it. Is there part of your spiritual life that needs more attention or more exploring? Spend time on the practices that feel right to you, like prayer, meditation or being out in nature.

Making it part of your day

1. In the morning, start with a short chanting session. Pick one chakra a day, so you spend time with each of them over the week.
2. During the day, take a few minutes to chant one sound when you feel off balance or stressed. It’s a quick way to come back to calm and focus.
3. In the evening, chant to let go of the day’s tension, then think back over what you noticed.
4. With other people. Chanting together creates a sense of community and shared intention. Join a meditation group or invite a few friends to chant with you.

Most of what you get from these practices comes from the attention and intention you bring to them.