The Khechari Mudra Dhyana Mantra is a set of visualization verses used to invoke the state of Khechari Mudra, the 'space-gesture' in which the tongue is turned upward and inserted into the nasal cavity. This advanced practice is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (3.32-54) and the Gheranda Samhita (3.25-27). The mantra is chanted to attain mastery over the mudra, which is said to awaken higher energies and grant access to amrita, the nectar of immortality. The term 'Khechari' means 'moving in space' (kha = space, chari = moving), and the mudra is associated with Shiva as the supreme yogi.
The dhyana mantra typically includes visualizations of the tongue as a serpent or a key, and the practitioner meditates on the flow of nectar from the moon at the crown chakra. According to the Shiva Samhita (4.31-37), the practice prevents aging and death. The beej-akshara 'Hrim' or 'Kshraum' may be added, but the core is the mental repetition of 'Khechari' while holding the physical posture. Traditional purposes include the purification of the nadis, the awakening of Kundalini, and the attainment of siddhis (psychic powers).
Recommended chanting context: early morning or midnight, in a quiet space, after mastering the physical mudra under a guru. The count is typically 108 repetitions per session, often done in conjunction with breath retention (kumbhaka). Cautions: This mudra should only be attempted under the guidance of a qualified teacher, as improper practice can injure the tongue or cause mental imbalance. The mantra alone, without the physical practice, is considered safe for meditation on the concept of space-consciousness.
Salutations to the one who moves in space.
The mantra may incorporate the seed syllable 'Hrīṃ' or 'Kṣraum' in some traditions, but the core dhyana mantra does not contain explicit beej-aksharas.