✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 28 of 112 — The Shield Of The Senses
Sanskrit Verse
kararuddha-dṛgastrena bhrūmadhye bhindanād-aṇum | lakṣite vyomani sthitvā tatraiva layam-āpnuyāt ||
By blocking the openings of the head with the hands, and by piercing the 'atom' (bindu) between the eyebrows, one perceives the light; staying there, one attains dissolution into the supreme void.
Commentary
This dharana is often associated with 'Shanmukhi Mudra' (the seal of the six gates). By physically closing the ears, eyes, nose, and mouth, the practitioner cuts off all external sensory input (Pratyahara). This internalizes the 'Prana' (life force). The focus is then directed to the 'Bhrumadhye' (the space between the eyebrows), often called the Third Eye or Ajna Chakra. The verse speaks of 'piercing the atom' (bhindanad-anum), which refers to breaking through the initial darkness or the 'bindu' (point) of concentrated energy at the third eye. When the external world is shut out and the internal focus is sharp enough, a 'Vyoman' (internal sky or void) is perceived. This is often experienced as an internal light or a vast inner space. By remaining ('sthitvā') in this inner luminosity, the individual ego-mind 'attains dissolution' (layam-apnuyat) into the universal consciousness. It is a powerful method for transitioning from the sensory world to the world of pure light and vibration (Spanda).
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit comfortably. Raise your elbows to the level of your shoulders. Use your thumbs to close your ears, your index fingers to lightly cover your eyes, your middle fingers to partially close the nostrils, and your remaining fingers to seal the lips.
- 02This is the Shanmukhi Mudra. Direct your internal gaze to the space between the eyebrows. Look into the darkness there with steady intensity.
- 03You may see a small point of light or a shimmering 'atom. ' Mentally 'pierce' through this point by going deeper into it.
- 04Ignore all external sounds and focus on the internal 'Nada' (sound) or light that emerges.
- 05Sink into this inner space. If your arms get tired, you may drop the mudra but keep the internal focus fixed on the third eye space.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it necessary to use the fingers to block the senses?
Initially, yes. The physical seal helps to instantly create a vacuum of sensory input, which forces the mind inward. Over time, as you become adept at Pratyahara, you will be able to 'close' the senses through willpower alone, but the mudra remains a powerful tool for deep practice.
I see colors and shapes when I close my eyes. What should I do?
These are 'chidakasha' (mental space) phenomena. Do not get distracted by them or try to analyze them. Look through them, seeking the 'Anu' or the most central point of light. The goal is to move past the 'scenery' into the 'void' that lies behind it.
What if I feel pressure in my head?
Ensure you are not pressing on your eyeballs too hard; the touch should be very light. If you feel internal pressure at the brow, relax your effort slightly. The 'piercing' is an act of concentrated awareness, not physical or mental strain.
What does 'piercing the atom' feel like?
It often feels like a sudden 'pop' or a shift in perspective where the darkness of the closed eyes suddenly gives way to a sense of vast, infinite space or a brilliant, pin-prick of light that seems to contain everything.
Is this practice safe for everyone?
People with high blood pressure, glaucoma, or ear infections should avoid the physical mudra. They can instead perform the dharana mentally by simply visualizing the senses closing and focusing on the space between the eyebrows without using their hands.
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