Tvam Svaha Tvam Svadha (Brahma's Stuti to Yoganidra) — Benefits & How to Chant
त्वं स्वाहा त्वं स्वधा (ब्रह्मकृत योगनिद्रा स्तुति)
Complete guide to chanting correctly for maximum benefit
Benefits of Chanting Tvam Svaha Tvam Svadha (Brahma's Stuti to Yoganidra)
Invokes the Devi as Mahamaya and Yoganidra
the supreme power behind creation, preservation and dissolution
Considered a powerful awakening prayer to dispel inner ignorance (the sleep of delusion) and confer spiritual wakefulness
Recited at the very start of the Durga Saptashati paath, sanctifying the entire recitation
Praises the Goddess as the soul of Om and the Vedas, deepening devotion and Self-knowledge
Believed to grant protection from unseen dangers, just as Brahma was saved from Madhu and Kaitabha
Cultivates surrender to the divine Mother as the one Shakti pervading all that exists
How to Chant Tvam Svaha Tvam Svadha (Brahma's Stuti to Yoganidra)
Instructions
Sit facing east or north before an image of the Devi. Light a lamp and recite the hymn slowly, dwelling on the Mother as Mahamaya and Yoganidra. It is traditionally chanted at the opening of the first charita (Prathama Charita) of the Saptashati, whose presiding deity is Mahakali. After recitation, meditate silently on the Goddess as the one power within and behind all creation.
Spiritual Significance
Tradition holds that just as Brahma was delivered from the unassailable demons Madhu and Kaitabha the very moment the Goddess was praised, a devotee who recites this first stuti with faith is freed from overwhelming, seemingly invincible troubles, and the 'sleep of delusion' clouding the mind is lifted into spiritual awakening.
Origin & History
Source: Durga Saptashati Chapter 1
Author: Sage Markandeya (Markandeya Purana)
In the Prathama Charita of the Devi Mahatmya, at the end of a cosmic cycle the universe becomes a single ocean and Vishnu lies in yogic sleep upon Ananta-Shesha. From the wax of his ears arise two terrible asuras, Madhu and Kaitabha, who rush to slay Brahma seated on the lotus from Vishnu's navel. Unable to wake Vishnu, Brahma extols the Goddess of Sleep (Yoganidra) with this hymn, beginning 'Tvam svaha tvam svadha.' Pleased, she withdraws from Vishnu's body; he awakens and, after a five-thousand-year battle, slays the two demons.