This technique as mentioned in Vigyan Bhairav Tantra text moves beyond intentional focus to leverage a spontaneous state that arises naturally from consistent breath-based meditation, promising the ultimate state of peace.
The Revelation of Peace: When Breath is Retained
Lord Shiva’s fourth instruction points to a moment of complete, automatic stillness:
When by itself the breath is retained after inhalation or exhalation – then in the end, through Energy known as peace, Peace is revealed. (Verse 27)
This verse refers to a state known in yoga as Kumbhaka, where the breath naturally “stops altogether” after an inhale or exhale, without any conscious effort. This is not an ordinary breath-hold but a spontaneous phenomenon that occurs as a result of practicing the previous breathing meditations or simple awareness of the breath.
The key to this method is that the retention happens “by itself”.
The length of the breathing cycle has a direct correlation with the lifespan, where slower, deeper breathing is associated with a longer, more tranquil life. This technique taps into the mechanism for tranquility itself.
The Practice of Subtle Breathing
To reach the spontaneous retention, the practice is a continuation of cultivating breath awareness:
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Simple Awareness: Sit comfortably, close your eyes, and focus your awareness on your breath.
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Automatic Slowing: By observing the breath, it will “gradually… slow down,” becoming “more gently and slowly”.
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Increased Span and Subtlety: The time for a full breathing cycle increases, the number of breaths per minute decreases, and the breath becomes “more subtle, more light”.
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The Stage of Cessation: Eventually, a stage arrives where the breath stops naturally after the inhale or exhale—the body’s need for oxygen is so diminished that the breath is temporarily suspended.
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Awareness is Key: The practitioner must maintain awareness during this state, which the text calls the “Energy known as peace.”
The Ascent of Kundalini and Ultimate Peace
There is a deep physiological and spiritual implication of this spontaneous cessation. When the breath stops, the mind calms down, and the awareness of stillness increases. This state facilitates the upward movement of Kundalini, the dormant energy at the base of the spine, through the central channel (Sushumna Nadi).
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As Kundalini rises through the central channel, the meditator experiences a deep sense of peace.
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When this energy reaches the top of the head (Sahasrara Chakra), the individual becomes liberated.
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The final result is the revelation of Peace itself, the ultimate state of the Supreme Reality.
Warning: Practices that directly try to raise Kundalini are “very powerful” and can be “dangerous,” mandating the guidance of a master. Stop immediately if any discomfort is felt.