Mūrchhā Prāṇāyāma
Introduction
Mūrchhā Prāṇāyāma is a traditional yogic breathing practice described in Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā and Gheraṇḍa Saṁhitā. It is classified as one of the advanced forms of prāṇāyāma. The word Mūrchhā means “fainting” or “swooning,” but in yogic terms, it refers to achieving a state of transcendental calmness, semi-unconscious bliss, and expansion of awareness beyond ordinary perception.
Definition
Mūrchhā Prāṇāyāma is defined as a controlled breathing technique involving slow inhalation, kumbhaka (breath retention), and gentle exhalation that induces a meditative, trance-like, blissful state of mind, sometimes accompanied by light-headedness or fainting sensations due to temporary cerebral hypoxia.
Meaning
Mūrchhā = swoon, faint, blissful unconsciousness.
Prāṇāyāma = regulation of breath and prāṇa.
Thus, Mūrchhā Prāṇāyāma means the breathing technique that leads to a calm, semi-trance state by expansion of prāṇa and withdrawal of external senses.
Etymology
Mūrchhā (Sanskrit root: mūrchh, to swoon or become unconscious).
Prāṇa (vital energy) + āyāma (extension, control).
Etymologically, it signifies expanding vital force to transcend the normal mental state into blissful consciousness.
Philosophy
According to Haṭha Yoga:
It is practiced to experience pratyāhāra (withdrawal of senses) and rasa-ānanda (blissful nectar-like feeling).
It symbolizes detachment from the physical body and mind, leading to deeper states of meditation.
It is not meant for ordinary practitioners but for advanced yogis who can control prāṇa safely.
Concept
Induces momentary suspension of ordinary consciousness.
Expands awareness by withdrawing prāṇa from sense organs.
Helps in stilling fluctuations of the mind (citta-vṛtti-nirodhaḥ).
Considered preparatory for Samādhi experiences.
Preparatory Practice
Before attempting Mūrchhā, one should master:
Nāḍī Śodhana Prāṇāyāma
Kumbhaka (breath retention)
Bandhas (Jālandhara, Mūla, Uḍḍīyāna)
Meditative sitting postures (Padmāsana, Siddhāsana)
How to Perform Practice (Practical Technique)
Sit in a meditative posture (Padmāsana/Siddhāsana).
Close eyes and relax the body.
Inhale slowly and deeply through both nostrils.
Retain breath (kumbhaka) while applying Jālandhara Bandha (chin lock).
Focus awareness at the Ājñā Chakra (between eyebrows).
Maintain as long as comfortable, feeling expansion in the head.
Release the bandha and exhale slowly.
Remain still, observing subtle bliss and calmness.
Common Mistakes & How to Improve
Mistake: Holding breath forcefully beyond capacity → dizziness or fainting.
Correction: Gradually increase retention with practice.
Mistake: Improper posture → strain in neck/back.
Correction: Sit steady and upright.
Mistake: Practicing without guidance → risk of hypoxia.
Correction: Learn under a teacher initially.
Benefits
Induces deep relaxation and blissful calm.
Reduces anxiety, depression, and restlessness.
Enhances concentration and memory.
Prepares mind for meditation and Samādhi.
Balances sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
Precautions
Practice on an empty stomach.
Always in a safe seated posture (not standing).
Avoid in hot, crowded, or poorly ventilated rooms.
Contraindications
Heart disease
Hypertension
Epilepsy
Vertigo, fainting tendency
Pregnancy
Severe respiratory conditions
Duration, Timing, and Stages of Practice
Duration: 5–10 minutes in beginning, later 15 minutes.
Timing: Early morning or evening, in a calm atmosphere.
Stages:
Beginner: Mild kumbhaka.
Intermediate: Longer retention with bandhas.
Advanced: Entering semi-trance blissful state.
Variations and Advanced Levels
Mūrchhā with visualization at Ājñā Chakra.
Mūrchhā combined with internal mantra repetition.
Advanced retention with all three bandhas (Mahābandha).
Stages of Progress & Signs of Advancement
Calmness and lightness in head.
Withdrawal from external senses.
Blissful semi-trance awareness.
Easier entry into meditation.
Application in Daily Life & Lifestyle Integration
Helpful for stress management.
Can be integrated before meditation or sleep.
Promotes detachment from overthinking.
Integration with Other Yogic Practices
Best practiced after Nāḍī Śodhana or Ujjāyī Prāṇāyāma.
Can be followed by Dhyāna (meditation).
Complements Pratyāhāra and Dhyāna sādhanā.
Yogic Anatomy & Physiology
Works on Ājñā Chakra (third eye).
Activates Idā & Piṅgalā Nadis to withdraw prāṇa inward.
Promotes pratyāhāra by reducing sensory activity.
Anatomy & Physiology (Modern View)
Breath retention alters oxygen & CO₂ levels, creating mild cerebral hypoxia.
Activates parasympathetic nervous system → calmness, bliss.
Reduces brain hyperactivity, slowing EEG patterns.
Kinesiology & Biomechanism
Involves controlled diaphragm and intercostal muscle movement.
Bandhas alter thoracic and abdominal pressures, influencing circulation.
Cerebral blood flow is temporarily modified.
Physiological & Psychological Effects
Physiological: Lowers blood pressure, reduces stress hormones, regulates brain oxygenation.
Psychological: Promotes detachment, inner peace, blissful awareness.
Modern Relevance & Scientific Research
Studies suggest breath retention and hypoxic training improve brain resilience, focus, and emotional control.
Can be useful in stress management, PTSD, anxiety.
Caution needed due to possible fainting; must be taught responsibly.
Summary
Mūrchhā Prāṇāyāma is a powerful but advanced yogic technique that induces blissful trance and inner calm. While beneficial for meditation and higher yogic states, it requires proper guidance, careful practice, and should not be attempted casually.
FAQ
Q1. Is Mūrchhā safe for beginners?
No, it is an advanced practice. Beginners should first master basic prāṇāyāmas.
Q2. Why is it called “fainting” breath?
Because it induces a swoon-like blissful state resembling fainting but without harm when done correctly.
Q3. Can it be practiced daily?
Yes, but for short durations and under supervision.
References
Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā (Chapter 2, Verse 71)
Gheraṇḍa Saṁhitā (Prāṇāyāma section)
Swami Sivananda – The Science of Pranayama
Satyananda Saraswati – Asana Pranayama Mudra Bandha
Modern research on hypoxic training and pranayama