✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 2 of 112 — The internal Kumbhaka of Stillness
Sanskrit Verse
maruto 'ntarbahiḥ vāpi viyanmuktvā nivartanāt | bhairavyā bhairavasyetthaṃ bhairavi rūpaṃ prakāśate ||
When the breath (Maruta) is turned back from either the internal or external space, the form of Bhairava is revealed through Bhairavi.
Commentary
This dharana utilizes the concept of 'Nivartana' or turning back. It is a more advanced engagement with the breath than the first technique, involving a subtle pause where the breath is suspended in the 'Viyat' or void. In this context, Bhairavi represents the kinetic power of consciousness (Shakti), and Bhairava represents the static, foundational awareness (Shiva). When the breath is held—not through muscular effort, but through the stabilization of intent—the outgoing and incoming currents are neutralized. This neutralization causes the 'fire' of awareness to burn brighter. Metaphysically, the external space and internal space are seen as mirrors of one another. By pausing the movement of air, the practitioner pauses the movement of time and space within their own perception. This leads to the 'Prakasha' or illumination of the true nature of reality. The practitioner experiences themselves not as a body breathing in an environment, but as the vast space in which the breath and the environment appear. The 'form' of Bhairava that is revealed is not a physical image but the realization of one's own infinite, all-pervasive nature.
Practice Instructions
- 01Begin with rhythmic breathing to calm the nervous system. As you inhale fully, allow the breath to rest in the internal space (the heart or the lungs) for a moment.
- 02Instead of immediately exhaling, 'turn back' the movement of the mind, focusing intensely on the stillness within the lungs.
- 03Similarly, after exhalation, remain in the external void before the next inhalation begins.
- 04The key is to recognize the 'Viyat' (space) both inside and outside. During these brief suspensions, visualize your consciousness expanding into the infinite space of the universe.
- 05Feel that you are neither the one breathing nor the breath itself, but the silent witness of the expansion and contraction.
- 06Do not strain; the suspension should feel like a choice to remain in peace rather than a struggle for air.
- 07As the pause naturally lengthens, let your identity merge into the surrounding space.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
How does 'turning back' differ from holding the breath?
Holding the breath (Kumbhaka) is often a physical act involving the throat or diaphragm. 'Turning back' is a mental and energetic shift where you consciously decide to dwell in the moment of stillness. It is more about the redirection of attention than the mechanical retention of air in the lungs.
Is this practice dangerous for the heart?
If done with strain or for excessive durations, any breath retention can be stressful. However, this dharana emphasizes the 'void' and 'stillness.' As long as you maintain a relaxed state and do not push past your comfortable limits, it is a safe and deeply restorative practice for the nervous system.
What is the role of Bhairavi in this verse?
Bhairavi is the Shakti, the dynamic energy that allows us to perceive. In this dharana, she is the breath and the awareness that tracks the breath. She is the bridge that leads the practitioner to Bhairava, the silent, foundational state of pure consciousness that lies beyond all movement.
Can I use a mantra with this practice?
While the verse doesn't explicitly mandate a mantra, many practitioners subtly use 'So-Ham.' 'So' on the inhale and 'Ham' on the exhale. The pause then becomes the silent space between the two syllables, which helps in anchoring the mind during the transition into the void.
How long should the suspension last?
The duration is less important than the quality of awareness. Even a three-second suspension held with total presence and no tension is more effective than a long, strained retention. Increase the duration only as your body and mind become naturally accustomed to the stillness.
✦ ENROLL
Study all 112 Vijnana Bhairava Techniques as part of your Bachelor of Shaiva Sciences at Shiva University.
$99/month.
FREE international hotel certificate delivered within 24 hours of enrollment.
The first 100 students lock in $99/month for life.
15 Sacred Destinations
Varanasi, India (Shiva's holy city) | Bali, Indonesia | Kyoto, Japan | Rishikesh, India | Sedona, Arizona | Paris, France | Tulum, Mexico | Cancun, Mexico | Oaxaca, Mexico | Phuket, Thailand | Machu Picchu, Peru | Nairobi, Kenya | Lagos, Nigeria | Ubud, Bali | Istanbul, Turkey
Graduation bonus: FREE 7-night Bali retreat upon completion of the Bachelor of Shaiva Sciences (Month 24).