The Viparita Karani Dhyana Mantra is a meditative invocation associated with the advanced yogic practice of Viparita Karani, the 'inverted gesture' or 'reversing flow.' This practice is detailed in classical hatha yoga texts such as the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (3.78-82) and the Gheranda Samhita (3.33-36), where it is described as a method to reverse the natural downward flow of prana (life force) and to prevent decay. The mantra is chanted to invoke the support of Shiva and Shakti, the cosmic principles of consciousness and energy, in mastering this inversion. The practice is said to awaken kundalini, the dormant spiritual energy coiled at the base of the spine, by redirecting the flow of prana upward through the sushumna nadi.
According to the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, Viparita Karani is a powerful technique for conquering aging and death, as it reverses the effects of time on the body. The mantra itself may incorporate beej-aksharas (seed syllables) such as 'Om' or 'Hrim' to energize the practice, though specific phoneme analysis varies by tradition. Traditionally, this mantra is chanted before or during the physical practice of Viparita Karani, often in a quiet setting with the practitioner lying on the back with legs raised and supported.
The recommended count is 108 repetitions, ideally at dawn or dusk. Cautions include avoiding practice by those with high blood pressure, neck injuries, or during menstruation. The mantra should be received from a qualified guru to ensure proper technique and safety.
Salutations to the inverted gesture, the energy that reverses the flow.
Contains the beej-akshara 'hrīṁ', which is associated with the goddess Mahamaya and the activation of kundalini energy.