Close Seven Openings - Space Becomes All-Inclusive
शिखिपक्षैश्चित्ररूपैर्मण्डलैः शून्यपञ्चकम् । ध्यायतोऽनुत्तरे शून्ये प्रवेशो हृदये भवेत् ॥
shikhipakkshaischitrarurpairmandalaih shunyapanchakam | dhyayato anuttare shunye pravesho hridaye bhavet ||
VBT Verse 38
The Sutra
"Closing the seven openings of the head with your hands, a space between your eyes becomes all-inclusive."
Paul Reps translation, Zen Flesh, Zen Bones (1957)
Understanding
A powerful Pratyahara (sense-withdrawal) technique. Close all seven openings of the head: two eyes, two ears, two nostrils, and the mouth - using your fingers. With all external input shut off, an inner space between the eyes becomes all-inclusive. This is Shanmukhi Mudra, one of the most direct methods to experience inner light, sound, and the vast space of consciousness.
Original Sanskrit
शिखिपक्षैश्चित्ररूपैर्मण्डलैः शून्यपञ्चकम् । ध्यायतोऽनुत्तरे शून्ये प्रवेशो हृदये भवेत् ॥
shikhipakkshaischitrarurpairmandalaih shunyapanchakam | dhyayato anuttare shunye pravesho hridaye bhavet ||
Vijnanabhairava Verse 38 (Technique 15 of 112)
How to Practice
Sit comfortably. Raise both hands to your face.
Close the two ears with your thumbs, the two eyes with your index fingers, the two nostrils with your middle fingers, and press your lips together with ring and little fingers.
This is Shanmukhi Mudra (six-gate seal). Release the middle fingers slightly when you need to breathe.
With all external senses sealed, turn your attention to the space between your eyes - the Ajna region.
You may see inner lights, colors, or patterns. You may hear inner sounds. Simply observe.
Let this inner space expand until it feels "all-inclusive" - containing everything.
Practice for short periods initially. The inner experience can be intense.
Duration
10-15 minutes
Best Time
Early morning or late evening - in a quiet environment
Related Techniques
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