Khechari Mudra: Meaning, Benefits, and How to Do

khechari mudra

Khechari Mudra is an important yoga mudra with many benefits. Learn what it is, how to do it, and the meaning of Khechari Mudra.

Definition – What is Khechari Mudra and its Meaning, References, and Mythology?

Khechari Mudra is a special Mudra. This Mudra is also known as a Tongue lock/seal. As per Various Yogic texts such as Hatha Yoga Pradipika, it is believed that our body produces Nectar which brings immortality, or in other words, it delays aging. If you taste the bliss of Nectar, then you won’t even need to eat anything for days. Some Yogis even claim to have achieved this Mudra one such person was Prahlad Jani, who died in 2020 at the age of 90. This Yogi claimed that he had survived for 70 years without food and water. Scientists and researchers studied him in 2003 and 2010, and it was found that whatever he spoke about his survival without food and water was true. However, We do not recommend anyone starve themselves.

While practicing this Mudra, a person rolls back his tongue and tries to bring it into the Nasopharynx (Nasal Cavity). It is believed that there are various pressure points located inside that can be stimulated to regulate various hormones. If done right, it helps to influence the body and our various systems. This also helps to control the sensation of thirst and hunger.

In Yogic texts, even our Saliva is considered very special. This Mudra brings stillness and calmness to mind and body. While practicing this Mudra helps to retain Saliva as well. It is also believed that this Mudra helps to stimulate the pituitary gland, which is also considered the master gland. The Pituitary gland helps to regulate various other hormones. According to some Yogic beliefs, The pituitary gland can be analogous to the Ajna Chakra or The Third Eye Chakra.

This Mudra seals the energy Bindu situated at the top of the Nasopharynx. If we seal that Bindu, this ensures we are not losing any of our energies and strength. But, to practice this Mudra, a tongue has to be long enough. Otherwise, this Mudra cannot proceed. So, there are specific practices to lengthen the tongue.

Alternate Name of Khechari Mudra

Tongue lock/seal.

How to Do Khechari Mudra?

  • This Mudra is based on the movement of the tongue inside the mouth (oropharynx) and nasal cavity (Nasopharynx).
  • You can practice this Mudra while seated in a comfortable meditative posture. More preferably, you can choose to sit in the Padma Asana (Lotus Pose) or the Siddha Asana (Accomplished Pose).
  • Take a deep breath in and bring your hands to your knees.
  • You can assume Gyana Mudra, or you can take Chin Mudra.
  • Now, slowly roll your tongue back so that the lower part of the tongue should be touching the upper palate of the mouth.
  • Stretch the tongue inside and try to reach as far as possible inside the mouth. The idea is to cross the mouth’s hard and soft palate and bring your tongue inside the Nasopharynx. However, practice it in a range where you feel comfortable.
  • Breathe as deeply as possible without straining yourself.
  • Practice Ujjayi breathing.
  • Try to practice this Mudra as long as possible. Once you feel you cannot do it any longer and your tongue is tired, come back without pushing yourself too much.

Khechari Mudra Benefits

khechari mudra benefits
  • There are several pressure points located inside the mouth. It is believed that they help to regulate the flow of hormones. Through this, we can attain a balance.
  • It is also believed that This Mudra can stimulate the Pituitary gland, also known as the master gland. This gland is responsible for the secretion of various other hormones. So, similar to the previous point, it helps to promote well-being.
  • This Mudra can help to activate the Third Eyes Chakra.
  • This Mudra is also believed to awaken the power of Kundalini Shakti.
  • Practice this Mudra brings stillness and calmness.
  • Practicing this Mudra can help to delay aging.
  • This Mudra can also help to control thirst and hunger.
  • This also activates the Susumna Nadi, the principal of all Nadis. As we all know, Nadis are responsible for the flow of Prana Shakti, the life force.
  • It helps to seal the Bindu through which we lose our energy. This Bindu is also believed to bring Nectar of life which can delay your aging.

Khechari Mudra Precautions and Contraindications

khechari mudra precautions

However, there are a few things to consider:

  • You should discontinue the practice if you experience a bitter secretion, as the toxins may cause this.
  • If you have any issues related to your tongue or mouth, you should first resolve all those issues before practicing this Mudra.
  • You should not exert any strain on your tongue.
  • You should practice this Mudra under the guidance of an experienced teacher.

When and How long to do Khechari Mudra?

  • This Mudra can be practiced if you want to triumph over your thirst and hunger.
  • If you are suffering from hormonal imbalance, then this might help.
  • You can practice this to bring calmness and stillness.

Morning is the ideal time to do any yoga or Mudra. In the morning, at this time during the daytime, our brain is at its best. So, you are more likely to be able to concentrate easily. Therefore, you should practice this Mudra from 4 am and 6 am to get the most effective outcomes.

If you are having difficulty with this during the morning, you can do this Mudra later in the evening too.

Based on research, the best way to practice an exercise for at least 10-20 minutes is to get the best benefits of that particular Mudra. Practicing this Mudra for a minimum of 3-5 times daily is recommended. It’s up to you whether you wish to complete it in one stretch or in two threes that last between 1 to 5 minutes.

Breathing in Khechari Mudra

There are various types of breathing we can practice with this Mudra:

  • You can practice Ujjayi breathing while practicing this, Mudra. And try to increase the time of your inhalation and exhalation. Breathe as long as you can, do not rush to breathe.

Visualization in Khechari Mudra

Visualize that you are not limited by age. You are not afraid of getting old. You are invested in building such things that would last longer than your biological age.

Affirmation in Khechari Mudra

While practicing this, Keep a positive intention. Start with:

I am investing my time in building permanent things and relationships, things that last very long.

Conclusion

Khechari Mudra is a beneficial practice that can help improve your health and well-being. If you’re interested in learning more about this and other mudras, consider signing up for our Mudras Certification Course. This course includes 108 mudras, each of which offers different benefits. With this course, you’ll be able to learn how to use mudras to improve your health, reduce stress, and promote relaxation. Sign up today and start getting the benefits of Yogic Mudras.

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Divyansh Sharma
Divyansh is Yoga, Meditation & Kinesiology Teacher who has been practicing Yoga and Meditation Since 2011. The Idea of correlating Yoga with Modern Sciences fascinates him the most & to feed his curiosity, he keeps on exploring new things every day. He has accomplished a Master's in Yogic Sciences, E-RYT-200, and RYT-500.

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