✦ Vijnana Bhairava Tantra
Technique 73 of 112 — The Void Of The Heart Lotus
Sanskrit Verse
hṛdyākāśe lina-manaḥ padma-sampūṭa-madhyagaḥ | ananya-cetāḥ prathame paraṃ saubhāgyam āpnuyāt ||
Merging the mind into the space of the heart, centered within the hollow of the lotus bud, with exclusive attention, one first attains the supreme state of blessedness.
Commentary
This dharana focuses on the hṛdaya, not as the physical organ, but as the metaphysical center of consciousness. In Kashmir Shaivism, the heart is the 'universal hub' where the subjective self meets the objective world. The imagery of the lotus bud (padma-sampūṭa) suggests a state of potentiality and inwardness. By retracting the senses and the mental fluctuations (citta-vṛtti) into this internal void, the practitioner reverses the outward flow of energy (pravṛtti) and redirects it toward the source (nivṛtti). Metaphysically, this technique leverages the concept of 'cidākāśa' or the 'space of consciousness.' When the mind is firmly fixed within this luminous interiority, the external world loses its fragmented nature and is perceived as an expression of the one Self. This 'supreme blessedness' (param saubhāgyam) refers to the dawning of 'ananda' or spiritual bliss that arises when the soul is no longer agitated by desire or aversion. The practice dissolves the ego-intellect by drowning it in the vast, still space located metaphorically within the chest, leading to the realization that the individual heart is identical to the heart of the Universe.
Practice Instructions
- 01Begin by sitting in a comfortable, upright posture. Close your eyes and take several deep, rhythmic breaths to settle the nervous system.
- 02Visualize within the center of your chest a soft, luminous lotus bud, slightly closed. Imagine the space inside this bud as a vast, dark, yet radiant void (ākāśa).
- 03Gently draw your entire awareness away from your surroundings and the thoughts in your head, guiding it down into this heart-space.
- 04As you inhale, feel the space expand; as you exhale, feel your mind dissolve deeper into the center of the lotus.
- 05Do not try to think about the heart; rather, feel the sensation of being 'within' it. If the mind wanders, return to the image of the hollow center.
- 06Maintain this single-pointed focus (ananya-cetāḥ) without tension. Gradually, the distinction between 'me' and 'the heart' should vanish, leaving only a sense of profound stillness and interior warmth.
Recommended Duration
Frequently Asked Questions
Where exactly is the 'heart space' located for this practice?
The heart space is located at the center of the chest, at the level of the sternum, rather than the physical heart on the left. It is known as the Anahata region. Focus on the spiritual center of your being, which feels like the core point of your inner subjective existence.
What if I cannot visualize a lotus clearly?
The lotus is a symbolic tool; its clear visual detail is less important than the feeling of 'containment' and 'interiority.' You can simply focus on a warm, golden space or a tiny point of light within the chest. The goal is to anchor the mind in the center, not to create a high-definition painting.
Is this practice suitable for those with emotional trauma?
Working with the heart center can sometimes release stored emotions. If you feel overwhelmed, gently broaden your focus to the space around your body before returning. This practice is inherently healing, as it connects the individual to the supreme source of bliss, but it should be approached with self-compassion and patience.
How do I know if I am achieving 'exclusive attention'?
Exclusive attention (ananya-cetāḥ) feels like a effortless absorption where the outside world seems to fade away. You won't be distracted by sounds or body sensations. It is not a forced concentration, but a natural falling-inward, much like being totally absorbed in a beautiful piece of music or a sunset.
Can I perform this dharana while lying down?
While a seated posture is preferred to maintain alertness, you can practice this lying in Shavasana if you are physically unable to sit. However, ensure you do not fall asleep, as the objective is to maintain a sharp, lucid awareness of the interior void, not to enter a state of dullness.
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