Bhoochari mudra
Bhoochari mudra is an allied technique to agochari and shambhavi mudra and all three are excellent forms of trataka1. Agochari and shambhavi mudras are often integrated with other yogic techniques or done specifically
during one’s yogic practice program. Bhoochari mudra on the other hand, though it can be done in your daily program, can easily be practised in everyday life. It can be done without other people realizing that you are practising a yogic technique.
It is an excellent, simple, yet effective practice that brings tranquillity and concentration of mind if done for a reasonable period of time with awareness.
Definition
The word bhoo means ‘earth’, and chari meansmoving’ or ‘dwelling’. As such we are notgoing to attempt a sensible, literal translationinto English. We prefer to call this practicenothingness gazing’.
Posture
This mudra can be practised in any position and almost any place. You can do it while
standing, sitting, lying, as you wish. You can do it in the privacy of your own house, at work or at play, whatever is convenient. However, if you practise at home in a sitting pose, it is best to face a blank wall. This ensures that there are no obstructions in your vision which can distract your attention from the practice.
Time and place
Almost anytime and anywhere. It can be practised before meditational techniques if required though it is a meditational technique in its own right. At first this simple practice is reasonably difficult for there are so many outer distractions that continually lure one’s attention in other directions. As with every other yoga technique it is a matter of practice makes perfect.
