Shanmukhi mudra is one of the techniques of hatha yoga,
meant for causing the prana (vital air) to reach the brahmarandhra (topmost
portion of the skull), to make the mind completely steady and to give rise to
nada (subtle sounds), the hearing of which is described as nadanusandhana. Here is a look at the benefits and importance of Shanmukhi Mudra.
As mentioned in Darshana Upanishad (VI 32-36), one sits in the
swastika posture, inhales deeply, and holds the breath inside (kumbhaka),
accompanied by the mula bandha.
While doing kumbhaka, the Shanmukhi mudra is employed by
covering the openings of the ears by the two thumbs, the eyes by the index
fingers, and the nostrils by the remaining fingers. This is said to make the
prana reach the brahmarandhra, giving rise to nada, comprising various sounds
like that of the sea, the clouds, drums etc.
In Hatha Yoga Pradipika (IV 67 – 68), this mudra is called paranagmukhi
mudra by the commentator Brahmananda. One is advised to hear the subtle sounds
in the right ear. The posture recommended is the siddhasana, i.e, pose an adept
yogi.
In Mandala Brahmana Upanishad (II 2.2), along with Shanmukhi
mudra, one is advised to fix the gaze on the tip of the nose during the state
of holding the breath.
In a similar manner, Yoga Chudamani Upanishad (114 – 115)
also mentions the arousal of subtle sounds and the stability of mind through
hearing them, as a result of the practice of Shanmukhi mudra.
Bibliography
Hatha Yoga Pradipika (1948) Srinivas Iyengar - Chennai
Theosophical Publishing House.
The Yoga Upanishads (1920) A Mahadevasastri - Chennai
Theosophical Publishing House.
Encyclopedia of Hinduism Volume IX page 221.