Khechari Mudra, one of the most revered yogic practices, is mentioned extensively in ancient yogic scriptures such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita, Shiva Samhita, and Yoga Kundalini Upanishad. It is considered a powerful technique for achieving longevity, higher consciousness, and divine nectar (Amrita). Ancient saints and yogis used this mudra to access heightened states of awareness, sustain life for extended periods, and attain spiritual liberation.
This article explores the historical references, benefits, and uses of Khechari Mudra as described in ancient texts, along with insights into how yogis practiced it to transcend physical limitations.
1. Scriptural References to Khechari Mudra
Khechari Mudra is extensively described in multiple ancient texts, where it is praised as a key technique to control prana, awaken Kundalini, and access the hidden nectar of immortality (Amrita) in the brain.
Key Texts Mentioning Khechari Mudra:
Hatha Yoga Pradipika (4.37-43)
Describes how Khechari Mudra allows a yogi to drink the divine nectar (Amrita), preventing aging and death.
Mentions that it grants freedom from disease, old age, and even liberation (Moksha).
Guides how a practitioner must gradually lengthen the tongue and roll it back to touch the upper nasal cavity.
Gheranda Samhita (3.26-28)
Describes the role of Khechari Mudra in activating the Ajna Chakra (Third Eye).
States that by sealing the throat passage, the yogi stops the downward flow of Amrita and retains it, ensuring vitality and longevity.
Shiva Samhita (4.8-12)
Declares Khechari Mudra as the ultimate method for transcending worldly suffering.
States that a yogi who perfects Khechari Mudra attains supernatural abilities (Siddhis), such as levitation and invisibility.
Yoga Kundalini Upanishad (Verse 1.52-58)
Describes the relation between Khechari Mudra and Kundalini awakening.
Mentions that when the tongue is correctly positioned, Kundalini rises effortlessly through the Sushumna Nadi, leading to spiritual enlightenment.
2. How Ancient Saints Used Khechari Mudra
Khechari Mudra was a secret practice of ancient saints and advanced yogis who sought enlightenment, prolonged lifespans, and mystical powers. It was often passed down in guru-disciple lineages and practiced in deep meditation.
Famous Yogis and Their Use of Khechari Mudra:
Maharishi Bhartrihari
Practiced Khechari Mudra extensively and was believed to have lived for several centuries due to the nectar preservation method described in the scriptures.
Gorakhnath (Founder of the Nath Tradition)
Stated that true mastery of Khechari Mudra grants liberation (Jivanmukti).
Used this technique to remain in deep samadhi (trance) for days without food or water.
Swami Trailanga (The 300-Year-Old Yogi)
Was reported to have used Khechari Mudra to sustain himself without physical food, drawing energy directly from prana.
It was believed that he could remain underwater for long durations without the need for breath.
Sage Matsyendranath
Used Khechari Mudra as part of his intense Tapas (austerities) to gain mastery over body and mind.
Emphasized the role of this mudra in activating the higher centers of the brain.
3. Benefits of Khechari Mudra as Per Ancient Texts
According to yogic scriptures, Khechari Mudra has immense physical, mental, and spiritual benefits. Some of the most profound effects include:
Physical Benefits:
Anti-Aging & Longevity – Prevents decay of bodily tissues by preserving Amrita.
Boosts Immunity – Strengthens internal organs and enhances resistance to diseases.
Regulates Breath & Reduces Oxygen Need – Helps the practitioner enter deep states of meditation with minimal breath intake.
Mental & Emotional Benefits:
Enhances Concentration & Intuition – Activates the Ajna Chakra (Third Eye), improving higher perception.
Reduces Stress & Anxiety – Induces a state of deep calm and inner bliss.
Increases Mental Clarity – Allows the practitioner to function with greater focus and reduced distractions.
Spiritual Benefits:
Activates Kundalini Energy – Awakens latent spiritual potential and enhances energy flow.
Grants Siddhis (Supernatural Powers) – Mentioned in Shiva Samhita as the gateway to divine abilities.
Leads to Enlightenment – Guides the yogi towards self-realization and liberation from worldly suffering.
4. How to Practice Khechari Mudra (Traditional Method)
The correct practice of Khechari Mudra requires gradual preparation and should be undertaken under a qualified guru.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Preliminary Stage:
Daily practice of Simplicity Exercises like stretching the tongue forward.
Massaging the tongue with ghee or butter to increase flexibility.
Intermediate Stage:
Rolling the tongue back slowly towards the soft palate.
Holding the tongue in the upper nasal cavity with closed eyes.
Advanced Stage:
Inserting the tongue deep into the nasopharyngeal cavity.
Retaining the position for prolonged meditation, allowing prana to flow into the brain.
Precautions:
This practice must be done under the guidance of a guru.
Forcing the tongue backward too quickly can cause discomfort or injury.
A proper sattvic (pure) diet should be followed to purify the body.
Conclusion
Khechari Mudra, as described in ancient texts, is one of the most powerful yogic techniques for extending life, awakening Kundalini, and attaining higher consciousness. Saints and yogis throughout history have used it to transcend physical limitations, enter deep states of meditation, and achieve spiritual enlightenment. The practice, while advanced, holds the key to unlocking human potential and merging with the divine.
By mastering Khechari Mudra, one can overcome the limitations of the body and mind, experience deep bliss, and gain access to the mystical secrets hidden within the ancient yogic traditions.
