Om Namah Shivaya is one of the most sacred and widely chanted mantras in yoga and meditation. Known as the Panchakshari Mantra, meaning “five-syllable mantra,” it is dedicated to Shiva, the energy of transformation, clarity and inner stillness.

Literal Meaning

Om: the universal vibration and the sound of creation
Namah: I bow, I honour
Shivaya: to Shiva, the inner Self, the pure awareness within

Together, the mantra translates as: I bow to the inner Self. I honour the energy of transformation and peace within me.

Deeper Significance

Chanting Om Namah Shivaya is believed to:

• quiet the mind and soften internal noise
• support emotional release and grounding
• strengthen a sense of inner clarity and resilience
• encourage personal transformation from within

It is often used at the start or end of a yoga practice, during meditation or whenever you want to reconnect with a calm, centered state.