In this article, I will show you how to practice Shambhavi Mudra step by step, based on the instructions shared by Sadhguru.
Step 1: Sit comfortably in a cross-legged position, with your spine erect and your shoulders relaxed. You can also sit on a chair or a cushion, as long as you are comfortable and stable.
Step 2: Place your palms on your knees, facing upwards. You can either join your thumb and index finger in Gyan Mudra or keep your fingers straight in Dhyana Mudra.
Step 3: Close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. Relax your face, jaw, forehead, and eyes. Let go of any tension or thoughts in your mind.
Step 4: Gently open your eyes and look straight ahead. Keep your chin slightly tucked in and your neck relaxed.
Step 5: Without moving your head, slowly shift your gaze toward the center of your eyebrows. Try to focus on the point where your eyebrows meet, or slightly above it.
Step 6: Keep your eyes open as long as you can, without blinking or straining. You may feel some pressure or tingling sensation in your forehead. This is normal and indicates that your third eye chakra is being stimulated.
Step 7: When you feel that you cannot keep your eyes open any longer, or when tears start to flow, close your eyes gently and bring your attention to the point between your eyebrows.
Step 8: Breathe normally and stay in this state of awareness for as long as you can. You may experience some visions, colors, sounds, or feelings. Do not get attached to them or try to analyze them. Just observe them as they come and go.
Step 9: When you are ready to end the practice, slowly open your eyes and look around. You may notice that everything looks more clear and more vivid. You may also feel more calm and peaceful.
Step 10: Thank yourself for doing this practice and express gratitude to the universe for this opportunity.
Benefits of Shambhavi Mudra
Shambhavi Mudra has many benefits for your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Some of them are:
- It improves your vision and eye health by strengthening the eye muscles and nerves.
- It activates the pineal gland, which is responsible for producing melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep cycle and mood.
- It stimulates the third eye chakra, which is the center of intuition, wisdom, and insight.
- It enhances your concentration, memory, and creativity by increasing the blood flow to the brain.
- It reduces stress, anxiety, and depression by calming the nervous system and balancing the hormones.
- It awakens your kundalini energy, which is the primal force that lies dormant at the base of your spine. When this energy rises up through the chakras, it can lead to spiritual awakening and enlightenment.
Precautions for Shambhavi Mudra
Shambhavi Mudra is a safe and simple practice that anyone can do. However, there are some precautions that you should keep in mind before doing it:
- Do not practice Shambhavi Mudra if you have any eye problems or injuries, such as glaucoma, cataract, or infection. Consult your doctor before doing it if you are not sure about your eye condition.
- Do not practice Shambhavi Mudra if you are pregnant or menstruating, as it may affect your hormonal balance.
- Do not practice Shambhavi Mudra if you have high blood pressure or heart problems, as it may increase your blood pressure or heart rate.
- Do not practice Shambhavi Mudra if you have epilepsy or any other neurological disorder, as it may trigger seizures or convulsions.
- Do not practice Shambhavi Mudra if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as it may impair your judgment or perception.
- Do not practice Shambhavi Mudra if you are mentally unstable or have any psychological issues, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. It may worsen your condition or cause hallucinations or delusions.