Shambhavi Mudra is a profound yogic and tantric practice described in classical texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (Chapter 4, verses 36-40) and the Shiva Samhita (Chapter 4, verses 20-23). The term 'Shambhavi' refers to the state of Shiva (Shambhu), and the mudra is considered a direct means to attain that state. The practice involves fixing the gaze (drishti) at the space between the eyebrows (bhrukuti-madhya), with the eyes half-open, while the mind is absorbed in the inner light. The associated dhyana mantra is often a silent mental repetition of 'Om' or 'Om Shambhavi' to deepen concentration. According to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Shambhavi Mudra leads to the awakening of the ajna chakra (third eye) and bestows the siddhi (perfection) of unmani avastha (the mindless state).
The beej-akshara 'Om' (ॐ) is central, representing the primordial vibration that resonates with the ajna chakra. Phonetically, 'Om' comprises the sounds A-U-M, which correspond to the three states of consciousness (waking, dreaming, deep sleep) and the fourth, turiya, which is the goal of this mudra. The traditional purpose of Shambhavi Mudra is to withdraw the mind from external objects and turn it inward, leading to samadhi (superconscious state). It is recommended to practice this mudra in a quiet, dark room, preferably during brahma muhurta (pre-dawn hours), after mastering asana and pranayama. The count is not fixed; rather, the practitioner should maintain the gaze for as long as comfortable, gradually increasing duration.
Cautions include avoiding strain on the eyes; the gaze should be steady but relaxed. Those with eye conditions or high blood pressure should practice under guidance. The Devi Mahatmya also alludes to the third eye as the seat of divine perception, and the Shaktisangama Tantra describes Shambhavi Mudra as a key to uniting Shiva and Shakti within the body. Advanced practitioners may combine this mudra with khechari mudra (tongue lock) for deeper absorption. Ultimately, Shambhavi Mudra is not merely a physical technique but a meditative absorption into the supreme consciousness, as affirmed by the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (sutra 1.36) which mentions focusing on the inner light as a means to steadiness of mind.
Meditation mantra for the Shambhavi Mudra, the gaze of Shiva.
The mantra centers on the beej-akshara 'Oṁ' (ॐ), which comprises A-U-M, representing the three states of consciousness (waking, dreaming, deep sleep) and the fourth, turiya. It resonates with the ajna chakra and is used as a silent mental repetition during the mudra.