Your Tattoo Guide

You’ve probably seen the Om (also spelled “Aum”) symbol, either on a yoga studio window, on Ayurvedic products, or even tattooed on someone’s body. Sacred to many religions, the word “Om” is a chant and mantra that is often uttered before and at the end of prayers and affirmations. Sanskrit symbols like this can add a lot to your body art, especially if worn correctly. In addition, if you don’t come from a culture where Om is commonly used, you should do some research before you get the tattoo to make sure it’s a respectful representation of Om and it’s the right fit for you.

What Is Om?

Om (also spelled “Aum”) is often seen on yoga studio windows, Ayurvedic products, and even tattoos. Sacred to many religions, the word “Om” is often uttered before and after prayers and affirmations. Sanskrit symbols like this can add a lot to your body art, especially if worn correctly. Additionally, if you do not come from a culture where Om is commonly used, you should do some research before getting the tattoo to make sure it’s a respectful representation of Om and is right for you.

Om’s origin and meaning are complex, so some people simplify things by thinking of it as something that can help them reconnect with their inner spirits and the universe, and the symbol as its physical manifestation.

Why Get an Om Tattoo?

Its deeply spiritual, complexly beautiful meaning has made Om a popular print for clothing, yoga mats, coffee mugs, and other small treasures – as well as for tattoos. Despite this, this symbol is more than just an indication of a zealous yogi’s interest in yoga. As a tattoo, it can have a rich, meaningful meaning. Wearing this Sanskrit symbol for your body art does not require any religious affiliation or faith, but you should appreciate its significance and understand its value of spirituality and oneness with the universe before choosing it.

Om Tattoo Placement

As much as getting the Om symbol tattooed on your body can be a sign of cultural appreciation, honoring and deeply connecting to the Hindi culture and ancient traditions, it can also lead to disrespectful cultural appropriation if poorly understood or conceived. The problem of cultural appropriation has existed for a long time, and it stands in stark contrast to the concept of cultural appreciation. In cultural appropriation, practices, aesthetics, customs, or symbols of another community, society, or ethnic or social group are inappropriately adopted. It is disrespectful to get the Om symbol tattooed on your body just for the sake of being trendy, or without fully understanding its meaning, history, and significance. You should also consider your tattoo placement in addition to grasping the power and beauty embodied in Om.

Any body art, regardless of design, begins with deciding where to place the tattoo. When you decide to get an Om tattoo, you’ll likely want to place the symbol somewhere you can easily see it, especially if you plan to use it as an affirmation daily. It is very important to note that the Om symbol should not be placed below the waistline, especially on the ankle or foot, since this may be considered disrespectful and culturally inappropriate. It is important to understand the meaning of any symbol you plan to use before getting it tattooed on your body, whether it is the Om symbol or another Sanskrit symbol like the Tree of Life.

Alternatives to An Om Tattoo

It is possible to wear the Om symbol in other ways if you love the significance and artfulness of this ancient Sanskrit symbol but are not yet ready to commit to a conventional tattoo. It is common for people to consider temporary or henna Om tattoos, at least at first. A ceremony like a wedding or rite of passage, a conference like a spiritual convention, or a yoga session can all benefit from this type of lighting. Also available are shirts and sweatshirts featuring the Om symbol, as well as bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.

You may also consider other symbols, such as a lotus or a mandala, if you are sure you want permanent body ink but not sure about the Om symbol. You may be able to relate more to one or both of these due to their deep significance. There are many symbolic meanings associated with the open lotus blossom, including enlightenment, new beginnings, peace, and spiritual awakening. From the entire universe to balance, focus, and perfect harmony, mandalas can represent a variety of things.

Here are the key points:

Sanskrit tattoos are generally interesting and meaningful, which is one of the many reasons people choose them. In choosing them, however, you must be authentic to yourself and understand their meanings. The same way that good art inspires you, your tattoo can do so as well. Consider, too, that you’ll likely have to explain the meaning of Om to others who see your tattoo for the rest of your life. However, if you’re getting an Om tattoo, you’re probably okay with it.