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Precaution: As soon as faintness is felt, stop the practice. This
technique must be practised slowly under the guidance of
a competent teacher. Contra-indications: People suffering from high blood
pressure, vertigo, brain disorders or epilepsy should not
practise this mudra. Benefits: This practice combines the benefits of kumbhaka,
ujjayi, shambhavi and khechari. It induces calmness and tranquillity, and develops control over the senses. When perfected, it arrests the thought processes and induces
higher states of consciousness. Practice note: It is recommended that the practitioner be
completely familiar with the practices of ujjayi, khechari and shambhavi before commencing akashi mudra. At first ujjayi pranayama may irritate the throat in this inclined position, but with practice it will become more comfortable. Maintain the final position for as long as possible, increasing the length of time in the mudra very slowly.
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