The Apasmara Nivarana Mantra is a sacred incantation dedicated to the alleviation of apasmara, a term in Ayurveda and Hindu tradition referring to epilepsy, seizures, and memory disorders. The word 'apasmara' (अपस्मार) is derived from 'apa' (away) and 'smara' (memory), indicating a loss of consciousness or memory. This mantra is primarily associated with Lord Nataraja, the cosmic dancer form of Shiva, who is depicted crushing the demon Apasmara under his foot. Apasmara represents ignorance and the neurological afflictions that cause seizures.
According to the 'Shiva Purana' and 'Tantras', Nataraja's dance subdues this demon, symbolizing the triumph of consciousness over neurological imbalance. The mantra also invokes Dhanvantari, the divine physician, as per 'Ayurveda texts' such as the 'Charaka Samhita' and 'Sushruta Samhita', which describe apasmara as a disorder of the mind and body caused by vitiated doshas. The beej-akshara (seed syllable) 'Om' is central, representing the primordial sound that harmonizes the nervous system. The mantra 'Om Apasmara Nashaya Namah' is a direct petition to destroy apasmara, with 'Nashaya' meaning 'destroy' and 'Namah' meaning 'salutation'.
Phonetically, the repetition of 'a' and 'na' sounds is believed to stimulate the brain's calming centers. Traditional purposes include relief from seizures, control of neurological disorders, restoration of memory, and overall mental health. The mantra is chanted during healing rituals, especially on auspicious days like Pradosha or Maha Shivaratri, and is recommended to be recited 108 times daily, preferably in the morning or during a seizure episode, while visualizing Nataraja's form. Cautions include that the mantra should be chanted with proper guidance from a guru, as incorrect pronunciation may lead to adverse effects.
It is not a substitute for medical treatment but a complementary spiritual practice. The 'Mantra Mahodadhi' and 'Shaktisangama Tantra' also reference similar mantras for neurological healing, emphasizing the power of sound vibration to recalibrate the brain's electrical activity.
Salutations to the destruction of epilepsy.
The mantra contains the seed syllable 'Om', which is the primordial sound that harmonizes the nervous system.