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Om
The primordial vibration Om (or “aum”) is considered the most sacred sound in Hinduism and Buddhism. Thousands of years ago the Vedic seers know what modern science has only recently discovered: everything we see in the universe 
consists of energy vibrations – even those objects that appear solid. According to tradition, the ancient sages were able to hear the subtle vibrations produced by everything in the universe, and they identified Om as the most elemental sound of creation. In a quiet environment, you can hear the vibration of Om in the crashing of ocean waves, in the stillness of a forest, or in the rush of wind.
People have used Om as a mantra since ancient times, chanting the sound or silently repeating it in meditation to expand their awareness of the divine. In the Yoga Sutras, the philosopher Patanjali states that the repetition of Om, along with a deep contemplation of its meaning, is a direct path to enlightenment. He writes, “Om should be repeated and its essence realized. Then the mind will turn inward and the obstacles that stand in the way of progress will disappear.”
Although Om is considered a sacred syllable, in India those of the Hindu faith use it frequently in daily life, beginning the day, a journey, or a project by uttering the sound. The symbol is also incorporated into the design of all Hindu temples and family shrines. In the Western world, repeating Om at the beginning and end of yoga classes is common, and more and more people are using the sound as a mantra for meditation and sacred ceremonies.