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Bhoochari Mudra

In Sanskrit, Bhoo means "Earth" and Chari means "moving" or "dwelling" and Mudra means "gesture." This practice is a Mana Mudra meaning "head gesture" practice and is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Gheranda Samhita as well as the Shiva Samhita.

This practice is also a good Trataka practice meaning "gaze-less blinking." Unlike most practices this practice can be preformed at any time throughout the day.

This practice is a good preparatory practice to a Meditation practice or as a Meditation on it's own and promotes Dharana meaning "concentration."

Practice - Preliminary for beginners

Sit in a Meditative Asana or a comfortable seated position.

Keep the eyes open.

Bring the right hand in front of the face.

Hold the palm flat with the palm facing down and the fingers together.

Bring the side of the thumb so that it is in contact with the top of the upper lip.

The elbow points to the side of the body.

Focus the eyes on the tip of the pinky finger.

Gaze at the tip of the pinky finger intently for a minute or so without blinking or flickering the eyes.

Then after a minute or so, remove the hand and continue to gaze at the space where the pinky finger was placed.

Practice

Sit in a Meditative Asana or a comfortable seated position.

Keep the eyes open.

Bring the right hand in front of the face.

Hold the palm flat with the palm facing down and the fingers together.

Bring the side of the thumb so that it is in contact with the top of the upper lip.

The elbow points to the side of the body.

Focus the eyes on the tip of the pinky finger.

Gaze at the tip of the pinky finger intently for a minute or so without blinking or flickering the eyes.

Then after a minute or so, remove the hand and continue to gaze at the space where the pinky finger was placed.

Duration

Practice 5 - 10 rounds.

Note

When practicing, make sure there is nothing to visually disturb you during the practice.

Awareness

While practicing bring your awareness to Ajna Chakra.

Precautions with Bhoochari Mudra

Anyone with glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, recently had cataract surgery or any other eye surgery should seek the guidance of an experienced Yoga teacher.