Learn about the meaning and benefits of the Nasikagra mudra, that can be used to improve concentration and memory.
Definition – What is Nasikagra Mudra and its Meaning, References, and Mythology?
Nasikagra Mudra is one of the Mudra or Gesture/seal, which involves focusing on the tip of your nose. Therefore, it is also called Nasikagra Drishti. To simplify its meaning, we will break it down into simple parts.
Nasikagra – “Nasikagra” itself is made of two different words: Nasika + Ekagra
Nasika – the word “Nasika” is used to represent the nose.
Ekagra – the Sanskrit word “Ekagra” is used to describe concentration or focus.
Drishti – “Drishti” is a Sanskrit word used to describe Gaze or sight.
So, this Mudra is also called “Nose tip gazing.”
This Mudra is quite similar to the Shambhavi Mudra. The difference is that while we assume Shambhavi Mudra, we focus on the center of the eyebrows. On the other hand, when we practice Nasikagra Mudra, we concentrate on the tip of the nose. This Mudra also helps to keep our eyes healthy.
This is an excellent technique that helps to control anger-related issues. This also brings peace and clarity. After practicing this, we win over cravings and other such behavior. We don’t feel impatience. So, this brings a positive approach toward life. It teaches you Sanyama. Sanyam is a Sanskrit word that is used to describe Self-control. Self-control is important to practice any Dharna, Dhyana, or Samadhi.
This Mudra is also believed to improve communication between two sides of the brain. Nasikagra Drishti or Mudra shares many similarities with the Tratak Kriya, a part of Shatkarmas (six body and mind cleansing exercises), especially in terms of Benefits.
Alternate Names of Nasikagra Mudra
Nasikagra Drishti, Nose tip gazing.
How to Do Nasikagra Mudra?
- This Mudra is based on the specific movement of the eyes, where we gaze towards the tip of the nose. And try to maintain our focus on it.
- It is recommended that we should practice this Mudra by sitting in any meditative posture to gain maximum benefits and to maintain focus. Even more, you can try Lotus Pose or Auspicious Pose.
- Take a deep breath and rest your palms comfortably on your knees. You can even assume Gyana Mudra or Dhyana Mudra.
- Now, gently close your eyes and relax every facial muscle. Unclench the jaw, relax the eyebrows, and relax your forehead. Relax your eyes completely.
- After taking a few breaths, gently open your eyes and look forward. Your chin should remain slightly tucked in.
- Slowly bring your gaze toward the tip of your nose without moving your head.
- Make sure not to strain your eyes in any way.
- You might observe double outlining of the nose. It would seem V-shaped. Try to maintain your focus on the apex of this V-shape.
- Try to maintain your focus so you would seem absorbed entirely in practice.
- It is recommended that we should practice it for 4-5 minutes.
- After practicing it, gently close your eyes and relax for a while. Make sure to progress gradually into your practice. When you relax, make sure not to let any thought enter your mind. You can try to maintain your focus on your breath.
Additional preparation for this Mudra practice:
If you find it difficult to concentrate on the tip of your nose, you should start with some additional preparation. You can start by practicing this with the help of your thumb. To do so:
- Start by extending one of your thumbs and placing it in line with the tip of your nose while your arm should remain extended.
- Now, slowly and gently bring your thumb as close as possible towards the nose tip until you start to see two thumbs.
- Then again, slowly bring your arm back to the initial stage and practice it for 5-10 minutes. This Pre practice is very beneficial for your eyes as well.
Nasikagra Mudra Benefits
- Similar to Shambhavi Mudra, practicing this Mudra helps to concentrate at a higher state. So, it helps to relax the thought process.
- This Mudra improves brain functioning as well.
- This Mudra practice strengthens the focusing power of eye muscles. Hence, it helps to keep the eyes healthy.
- This Mudra gives benefits similar to the Tratak Kriya, one of the Shatkarma (6 cleansing exercises).
- It helps to calm the mind, especially calming anger issues and disturbed state of mind.
Nasikagra Mudra Precautions and Contraindications
Similar to all other Mudra practices, it has no side effects.
However, there are a few things to consider:
- If you are dealing with spine-related issues that you cannot practice while seated on the floor, you can also choose to sit on a chair.
- In their initial days, some people can develop mild headaches and dizziness. However, it would get better with practice.
- Make sure to practice it with the naked eye. Remove anything that you wear over your eyes.
- If you have Glaucoma, then you should not practice it.
- Make sure not to strain yourself while retaining your breath.
- If you feel any strain, then release the practice.
When and how long to do Nasikagra Mudra?
- You can practice this if you are dealing with Anger-related issues.
- If you want to achieve a deeper level of concentration.
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.
Practicing this Mudra for a minimum of 2-5 times daily is recommended. Whether you wish to complete it in one stretch or two threes that last between 5 and 10 minutes, it’s up to you. Based on research, the best way to practice an exercise for at least 10-50 minutes is to get the best benefits of this particular Mudra.
Breathing in Nasikagra Mudra
There are different types of breathing we can practice with this Mudra:
- Abdominal Breathing, where you expand the stomach maximum out with inhalation and relax your stomach with exhalation. For 10-12 times in a single go.
- If you have been a practitioner for a long time, you can aim for a 1:2 ratio of inhalation to exhalation.
Visualisation in Nasikagra Mudra
- Visualize that you are at a place surrounded by greenery.
- Your eyes are pleased to see the natural colors.
- All the plants are shining like anything, embracing their beauty.
Affirmation in Nasikagra Mudra
While practicing this, Keep a positive intention. Start with:
“I believe that trees and plants are my best friends.”
Conclusion
The Nasikagra Mudra has been shown to have countless mental and physical benefits. This Mudra is said to help relieve migraines and headaches and reduce stress and anxiety. If you’re interested in learning more about mudras and how to incorporate them into your life, consider signing up for our Mudras Certification Course. This course includes 108 mudras, each of which offers unique benefits. Learn more today and start experiencing the positive effects of mudras.
