✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 1 of 112 — The Void Between Breaths
Sanskrit Verse
ūrdhve prāṇo hyadhovāno visargātmā paroccharat | utpattidvitayasthāne bharaṇādbharitā sthitiḥ ||
The ascending breath (Prana) moves up, and the descending breath (Apana) moves down. By concentrating on the two places of their origin, a state of fullness arises.
Commentary
This primary dharana focuses on the 'Sandhi' or the junction points between inhalation and exhalation. In Kashmir Shaivism, the movement of breath is not merely physiological but is the manifestation of the divine Shakti. Prana (inhalation) rises from the heart center to the Dvadasanta (twelve fingers above the head), while Apana (exhalation) descends from the Dvadasanta back to the heart. The metaphysics here suggests that the source (utpatti) of these two movements is the same void of pure consciousness. When the practitioner focuses intensely on these two turning points—where inhalation ends before exhalation begins, and vice versa—the movement of thought, which is linked to the movement of breath, momentarily ceases. This cessation reveals the underlying 'Bharita' or fullness of Bhairava. It is not a void of nothingness, but a void of potentiality. By resting in the gap, one bypasses the dualistic movement of the mind and enters the non-dual state of the Self. The technique transforms the mundane act of breathing into a ritual of returning to the source of being, effectively collapsing the distance between the individual soul and the universal consciousness.
Practice Instructions
- 01Sit in a stable posture with your spine erect and eyes softly closed. Bring your awareness to the natural flow of your breath without trying to control it.
- 02Observe the inhalation (Prana) rising from the heart toward the crown and the exhalation (Apana) descending back toward the heart.
- 03As you reach the end of the inhalation, notice the microscopic pause before the exhalation starts.
- 04Similarly, at the end of the exhalation, notice the stillness before the next breath begins.
- 05Focus your entire consciousness on these two points of origin. Do not hold your breath forcibly; instead, let your awareness merge into the stillness of the transition.
- 06Feel that these gaps are not empty, but are the source of infinite energy and peace. As you stabilize your attention on these junctions, the mind will naturally become quiet and a sense of internal fullness will emerge.
- 07Maintain this state of 'Bharita' or total presence as long as possible, returning to the gap whenever the mind wanders.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I hold my breath during the gaps?
No, you should not practice Kumbhaka or forceful retention here. The goal is to focus on the natural, spontaneous pause that occurs between breaths. Forcing the breath creates tension in the nervous system, whereas this practice aims for a relaxed, spontaneous entry into the void of the heart center.
What if I cannot find the 'gap' between breaths?
The gap is subtle and often lasts only a fraction of a second. Initially, just intend to find it. As your concentration deepens and your breathing becomes slower and more refined, the transition point will naturally become more apparent to your inner awareness. Patience is key to perceiving this subtle junction.
Where exactly is the 'Dvadasanta' located?
Traditionally, Dvadasanta refers to a point twelve finger-widths above the head or at the top of the cranial vault. In this specific dharana, it represents the upper limit of the breath's movement. You can visualize it as a space of pure light or emptiness where the inhalation naturally culminates.
How does this technique lead to enlightenment?
By focusing on the junction points, you are accessing the 'Madhya' or the middle state. In Shaiva philosophy, the middle state is the doorway to Shiva. When the fluctuations of Prana and Apana are balanced at the center, the egoic mind dissolves, revealing the innate, non-dual consciousness of the practitioner.
Is it better to do this sitting or lying down?
While it can be practiced in any position, a seated meditation posture is recommended. An upright spine helps maintain alertness and facilitates the vertical flow of energy between the heart and the crown. However, if physical limitations exist, lying in Shavasana is an acceptable alternative for this practice.
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