The Khechari Mudra Mantra is a sacred sound formula associated with the advanced yogic practice of Khechari Mudra, wherein the tongue is turned upward and inserted into the nasal cavity to seal the throat. The term 'Khechari' means 'moving in space' (kha = space, chari = moving), referring to the movement of consciousness in the ethereal realms. This mantra is primarily found in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (Chapter 3, verses 6-27) and the Gheranda Samhita (Chapter 3, verses 25-28), which detail the technique and benefits of the mudra.
The mantra is often chanted as 'Om Khecharaya Namah' or variations thereof, invoking Shiva as the deity of the mudra. The beej-akshara (seed syllable) 'Kheem' is sometimes used, with 'Khe' representing the space element and 'Im' denoting the power of will. The phoneme 'Kha' is associated with the throat chakra (Vishuddha), which is activated by the tongue lock.
According to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Khechari Mudra prevents the loss of amrita (nectar) from the bindu visarga, thus bestowing immortality and superconscious states. The mantra is traditionally chanted to gain mastery over the mudra, awaken higher energies (kundalini), and attain liberation. Recommended chanting context includes early morning or midnight, with a count of 108 repetitions using a rudraksha mala, in a seated posture with the tongue in the mudra position.
Cautions: Khechari Mudra should only be attempted under the guidance of a qualified guru, as improper practice can cause injury or energy imbalances. The mantra itself is safe when chanted mentally without the physical mudra.
Salutations to the one who moves in space.
The seed syllable 'Kheem' (खीं) is sometimes used, with 'Khe' representing the space element and 'Im' denoting the power of will.