The Nath Hatha Yoga Mantra tradition originates from the Nath sampradaya, a Shaivite lineage founded by Adinath (Shiva) and systematized by the sage Gorakhnath. These mantras are integral to the practice of Hatha Yoga as described in foundational texts such as the *Hatha Yoga Pradipika* (c. 15th century CE) by Svatmarama and the *Gheranda Samhita* (c. 17th century CE). The mantras are chanted to invoke the blessings of Adinath and Gorakhnath, seeking mastery over the physical and subtle bodies. The primary deity is Adinath (Shiva) as the supreme yogi, with Gorakhnath as the human guru who codified the practices.
The beej-akshara (seed syllable) often used is 'Om' (ॐ), representing the primordial sound and the union of Shiva and Shakti. Phonetically, 'Om' comprises the sounds A, U, and M, symbolizing the three states of consciousness (waking, dreaming, deep sleep) and the transcendence beyond. The traditional purpose of these mantras is to facilitate the awakening of kundalini shakti, the dormant spiritual energy coiled at the base of the spine, and to guide it through the sushumna nadi to the sahasrara chakra. According to the *Hatha Yoga Pradipika* (4.2), when kundalini is awakened, the mind becomes still and the yogi attains samadhi. The mantras are also chanted for the mastery of asanas (postures), pranayama (breath control), mudras (gestures), and bandhas (locks), which purify the nadis and balance the pranic currents. The *Gheranda Samhita* (5.1-2) emphasizes that mantra repetition (japa) combined with breath control leads to the attainment of siddhis (supernatural powers) such as levitation and clairvoyance.
Recommended chanting context includes early morning (brahma muhurta) or during specific yoga practices. The count is typically 108 repetitions per session, using a rudraksha mala. The ritual setting should be a clean, quiet space with a meditation seat. Cautions: These mantras should only be practiced under the guidance of a qualified guru, as improper use can cause energetic imbalances. The *Hatha Yoga Pradipika* (1.11) warns that Hatha Yoga without proper guidance leads to disease and delusion. The mantras are not to be chanted casually; they require initiation (diksha) from a Nath lineage teacher.
Salutations to the primordial lord (Shiva).
The mantra begins with the seed syllable 'Oṁ', which is the primordial sound representing the union of Shiva and Shakti. It comprises A (waking), U (dreaming), M (deep sleep), and the silence beyond.