Agochari Mudra (Nasikagra-Drishti)
The name Agochari Mudra, like other yogic terms, is based on concepts from the ancient language - Sanskrit. “Gochara” (गोचर) – perceived by the senses. The prefix "A" means the opposite or "not". Therefore, Agochari means that which cannot be perceived by the senses. Mudra is a certain position of the body (or parts of the body) that allows a person to control his energy.
Another name for Agochari Mudra, Nasikagra-Drishti, is translated much more simply. "Nasikagra" - tip of the nose, "Drishti" - contemplation.
In this mudra, the gaze is directed to the tip of the nose and the practitioner tries to contemplate it for as long as possible. This position is unusual for the eyes, so it takes some time to master this practice.
First mentions of Agochari Mudra
One of the oldest images of a sage in a “yoga pose” with half-closed eyelids and eyes looking down towards the tip of the nose was found in the ancient ruins of Mohenjo-Daro (“Hill of the Dead”, the largest city of the Indus (Harappan) civilization (2600 BC e. Located in Pakistan).
Agochari Mudra is also mentioned in the sixth book of the Mahabharata - Bhagavad Gita:
Keeping the body, head and neck straight and motionless, the student should look intently at the tip of the nose without looking away.
Bhagavad Gita (ch. 6-13).
Benefits of Agochari Mudra
Nasikagra-Drishti is a type of tratak or special meditative exercise for concentration, development of consciousness and improvement of vision. The mudra awakens the Muladhara chakra, which develops the ability to focus on oneself. The practice of Agochari Mudra helps to achieve Chitta Vriti Nirodhi, or cessation of the activities of the mind (chitta).
➤ Read more about Chitta Vritti Nirodha
➤ More about Chakras
The technique of performing Agochara-Mudra
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VE2tT-jMTI
Sit comfortably with a straight back. Place your hands on your knees, palms facing up, or do Jnana Mudra. Try to relax. Close your eyes. Feel how the body becomes calm and still. Open your eyes. Focus on the tip of the nose.
If it is difficult for you to concentrate immediately, then raise your finger in front of you at the distance of an outstretched arm, look at it and slowly move your finger to the tip of your nose. Then lower your hand and look at your nose. If you do everything correctly, you will see an inverted Ʌ-shaped figure.
Relax your face, do not strain your eyes, but do not take both eyes away from the tip of your nose. When you feel discomfort or fatigue in your eyes, take a break. Wink Then close your eyes and relax.
After some time, repeat the practice.
Do not try to practice as long as possible, master the technique gradually. Usually, beginners are able to meditate for only a few seconds, but after 1-2 weeks of practice, you will already be able to do this mudra for about a minute.
Practice of Agochara-Mudra
Perform the mudra for the required amount of time. We recommend starting with at least 4 approaches to concentration, gradually increasing the time of contemplation.