✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 43 of 112 — The Six Voids Through Closure
Sanskrit Verse
kararuddhanetratārāyugmamārgeṇa kramaśo bheda- | -tattvādālokaḥ syāttataḥ sthairyaṃ vidhātavyam ||
By blocking the openings with the hands, and by the gradual piercing of the centers, light appears; therein one should establish steadiness.
Commentary
This dharana describes a variation of Shanmukhi Mudra, the 'seal of the six gates'. The practitioner uses their fingers to close the ears, eyes, nostrils, and mouth, effectively cutting off external sensory input. The metaphysics behind this practice is 'Pratyahara'—the withdrawal of the senses. When the 'outgoing' energy of the senses is reflected back upon itself, it creates an internal pressure that 'pierces' the mental constructs (bheda-tattvāt). The 'light' (ālokaḥ) mentioned is not a physical light but the 'Chidakasha', the light of consciousness that shines when the distractions of the material world are removed. By closing the gates, the practitioner forces the mind to confront the internal void. This process leads to the perception of the 'Bindu' or the inner sun. The verse emphasizes 'sthairyam' (steadiness); once the inner light or sound is perceived, one must not grasp at it but remain steady within it. This practice is particularly effective for those dominated by sensory desires, as it provides an immediate experience of the richness of the internal landscape, which far exceeds external sensory pleasures.
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit comfortably. Raise your elbows to shoulder height. Use your thumbs to close your ear canals, index fingers to lightly cover the eyelids, middle fingers to partially close the nostrils, and the ring and pinky fingers to seal the lips.
- 02Do not press hard on the eyeballs. Breathe slowly through the small opening in the nostrils.
- 03Focus on the darkness behind the eyelids. Listen to the internal sound (Nada) in the ears.
- 04Eventually, a spark or glow of light may appear in the mental field. Fix your attention on that light without moving the eyes.
- 05Remain in this state of sensory closure for 10 minutes, then slowly release the hands and sit in silence.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
How hard should I press my fingers against my face?
The touch should be firm enough to seal the openings but gentle enough to avoid discomfort. Specifically, do not put any significant pressure on the eyeballs, as this can cause temporary blurred vision or irritation. The goal is sensory isolation, not physical force or pain.
What if I feel claustrophobic while closing my senses?
Claustrophobia is a common reaction when the mind loses its external anchors. If you feel panicked, release the hands immediately and take deep breaths. You can practice by closing only the ears first, then gradually adding the eyes and other senses as you become more comfortable.
I hear a ringing sound in my ears; is that normal?
Yes, that is the 'Anahata Nada' or the unstruck sound. In the silence created by closing the ears, the internal vibrations of the nervous system and the subtle body become audible. Instead of analyzing the sound, simply merge your awareness into it as a point of focus.
Why does the verse mention 'piercing the centers'?
'Bheda' means to pierce or break through. As concentration deepens, the awareness 'pierces' through the different levels of the mind and the subtle centers (chakras). This piercing is the process of moving from gross perception to the subtle light of the internal self.
Can I do this practice if I have high blood pressure?
If you have high blood pressure or glaucoma, be very cautious. Closing the senses and holding the breath (even slightly) can increase cranial pressure. Consult a teacher and practice for very short durations, ensuring you keep your breath flowing naturally without any retention.
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