As yoga practitioners, we understand the journey inward is as much about discipline and practice as it is about surrender and grace. In this context, the wisdom of Tara, the divine cosmic savior, offers profound insights and tools to enhance our practice and spiritual growth.
Tara as the Embodiment of Om :
Tara is the personification of the primordial sound Om, the vibration from which the entire universe emanates. Known as the Goddess of Deliverance, Tara represents the power of sound to transcend physical and mental limitations. She embodies Shabda Shakti—the transformative energy of sound—and serves as a guide, helping us cross the ocean of samsara (worldly existence) into spiritual liberation.
In both Hindu and Buddhist traditions, Tara is a revered deity, representing wisdom, compassion, and protection. Her name means “savior,” reflecting her role in guiding seekers through life’s challenges and leading them toward self-realization.
Meditation with Tara’s Mantra :
One of Tara’s most powerful tools for yoga practitioners is her mantra, which channels her energy into our practice. Tara’s seed mantra is:
| Om hrim strim hum phat ||
- Om: The cosmic vibration, representing the unmanifest source of all creation.
- Hrim: The transformative energy of purification.
- Strim: The feminine principle of creation and nurturing.
- Hum: The force of divine protection and wisdom.
- Phat: The power to break through obstacles.
Practice:
- Begin by sitting in a comfortable position, spine straight, and eyes gently closed.
- Inhale deeply and silently chant Om hrim strim hum phat.
- Allow the vibrations to flow naturally with your breath, drawing your awareness inward.
- Focus on the rising energy within, visualizing Tara’s deep blue form as a protective and guiding force.
This mantra practice not only purifies the mind but also strengthens the connection to your inner self, aligning you with Tara’s grace and wisdom.
Tara and the Power of Silence :
Tara’s teachings also emphasize the importance of silence. Between each sound and mantra lies an interval of stillness—the unmanifest sound, or pure Nada. As practitioners, we can meditate on these intervals to connect with the underlying vibration of Om.
Technique :
During meditation, focus on the silent pause between each inhalation and exhalation.
Visualize this silence as the energy of Tara, guiding your awareness deeper into your true Self.
This practice cultivates a profound sense of inner stillness and equanimity, enabling us to navigate life’s challenges with clarity and balance.
Symbolism of Tara’s Form :
Tara’s form is rich with symbolism, offering inspiration for our practice:
Her deep blue color represents the infinite and unmanifest sound vibration.
Her lotus flower signifies the heart’s awakening and the blossoming of spiritual knowledge.
Her sword symbolizes the ability to cut through illusions and attachments.
As yoga practitioners, contemplating Tara’s form during asana or meditation can deepen our connection to the transformative aspects of our practice.
Tara in the Body :
Tara is associated with the Navel Chakra (Manipura), the center of personal power and transformation. Activating this chakra with mantra or pranayama practices allows us to harness Tara’s energy to overcome inertia, strengthen our willpower, and purify the mind-body complex.
Practical Application :
Incorporate So-Ham breathing into your daily practice, silently chanting “So” on the inhale and “Ham” on the exhale.
Visualize Tara’s energy rising from the navel, illuminating the higher chakras.
Tara as the Path to Liberation :
Tara’s teachings remind us that the ultimate goal of yoga is liberation—freedom from the cycle of birth and death. She guides us beyond dualities, beyond the limitations of thought and emotion, to a state of pure consciousness.
As yoga practitioners, we can invoke Tara’s grace to rise above obstacles, deepen our inner stillness, and experience the eternal bliss of our true nature.
Let Tara’s wisdom infuse your practice, making every breath, every pose, and every meditation a step closer to the realization of your infinite self.
May you find strength, grace, and liberation through the power of Tara.
🙏Om Tat Sat🙏
#Tara #YogaPractice #MantraMeditation #InnerPeace #Liberation