AUM - The Universal Sound (II)
The literal interpretation of “dreamless sleep” can be misleading. Sushupti is not simply unconscious slumber—it is a state in which mental activity ceases entirely. There are no thoughts, emotions, or sensory impressions. The individual is unaware of both the external world and their internal landscape. In this profound stillness, the distinction between subject and object dissolves, allowing temporary merging with the source. Upon waking, the individual often feels refreshed—not only physically but mentally—having rested in this deep, unitive state.
AUM (ॐ) is considered the primordial sound—the vibration from which the entire universe emanated. It represents the source and essence of all existence. The syllable is composed of three distinct sounds, each linked to a state of consciousness:
A (Ah): The waking state (jagrat), associated with the gross physical world and beginnings.
U (Oo): The dreaming state (svapna), linked to the subtle mental realm and continuity.
M (Mm): The deep, dreamless sleep state (sushupti), representing dissolution and merging with the source.
Importantly, the silence that follows the "M" is not an afterthought—it represents the transcendent state (turiya), beyond all mental activity, where unity and pure consciousness dwell. In this way, AUM encapsulates the entire cycle of existence: beginning, continuity, merging, and transcendence.
It's important to recognise that dreaming is not contrary to yogic principles. Dreams are a natural function of the mind processing emotions, experiences, and subconscious material. They arise from the subtle body, which interacts with impressions (samskaras) held in the psyche. In fact, dreams can be seen as a valuable way the mind attempts to digest and integrate the waking experience.
The goal in yogic exploration is not to eliminate dreams, but to become aware of the different states of consciousness and to resist identifying exclusively with any one of them. Dreams aren’t harmful unless interpreted rigidly or filtered through superstitious or culturally imposed beliefs. Awareness—not suppression—is the key.
The physiological phenomenon of muscle atonia during REM sleep—when the body is effectively paralysed to protect it from acting out dreams—aligns beautifully with yogic perspectives. REM sleep is known to be critical for emotional processing, memory consolidation, and healing. In this way, modern neuroscience converges with ancient wisdom: deep states of rest and their associated mental activity, including dreaming, are essential to human well-being.
Underlying this exploration of sleep and consciousness is a deeply human yearning—for unity, rest, and connection. We see this expressed not only in spiritual traditions but also in modern mythology. Consider the Force in Star Wars—a fictional yet deeply resonant metaphor. The phrase "May the Force be with you" reflects the same sense of interconnectedness and belonging to something greater that sushupti embodies. Both ideas suggest a return to the source, a temporary merging with a ground of being that nourishes and unifies.
Across time and culture, different disciplines—science, spirituality, and storytelling—converge on a shared understanding: that deep rest, silence, and non-ordinary states of consciousness are not just beneficial, but essential. In both ancient teachings and modern research, we are reminded that healing, unity, and clarity begin with awareness—of breath, of states of mind, and of our place in the wider fabric of existence.
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