Amritam: The Nectar of Immortality in Yogic Tradition

In yogic philosophy, "Amritam" (अमृतम्) holds a significant and mystical place. Often referred to as the "nectar of immortality," Amritam symbolizes the ultimate essence of vitality and spiritual awakening. Derived from the Sanskrit root "a-" (not) and "mrita" (dead), it literally means "immortal" or "deathless." This concept permeates various ancient texts, notably the Vedas, Upanishads, and the Bhagavad Gita, where it is depicted as a divine elixir that bestows immortality upon those who consume it.

The Yogic Perspective of Amritam

From a yogic standpoint, Amritam is not merely a physical substance but a metaphor for the highest state of spiritual enlightenment and inner transformation. It is often described in the context of Kundalini Yoga, where the dormant spiritual energy, or Kundalini, rises through the chakras (energy centers) to reach the Sahasrara (crown chakra). Here, it merges with the universal consciousness, releasing the nectar of Amritam, which is said to drip down from the Bindu point, an area in the subtle body located at the top of the head.

The concept of Amritam is deeply rooted in classical yogic texts. For instance, in the Bhagavad Gita (9.22), it is mentioned:

तेषां नित्याभियुक्तानां योगक्षेमं वहाम्यहम्

"To those who are constantly devoted and who worship Me with love, I give the understanding by which they can come to Me."

Here, the "understanding" or wisdom can be interpreted as the divine knowledge akin to Amritam, guiding the soul toward liberation.

In the Shvetashvatara Upanishad (2.6), the notion of Amritam is depicted vividly:

यो ब्रह्माणं विदधाति पूर्वं यो वै वेदांश्च प्रहिणोति तस्मै।

तं ह देवं आत्मबुद्धिप्रकाशं मुमुक्षुर्वै शरणमहं प्रपद्ये॥ "He who creates Brahma in the beginning and who delivers the Vedas to him, seeking liberation, I go for refuge to that resplendent one, whose light turns the understanding towards the Atman."

This text emphasizes the divine enlightenment that parallels the effect of consuming Amritam.

The Hatha Yoga Pradipika also discusses the concept of Amritam, especially in relation to the practice of Khechari Mudra:

अमृतं यत्पतत्येव जीर्णे देहिनि देहिनाम् ।

यथैवाक्षरशब्देन तन्नाशं नाधिगच्छति ॥

"Amritam (nectar) falls from the head into the body of embodied beings, and by the practice of Khechari Mudra, it does not get destroyed."

The Yajnavalkya Samhita also touches upon the concept of Amritam in the context of spiritual practices that lead to the experience of this divine nectar, highlighting the transformative power of dedicated yogic practices.

Preserving Amritam: Yogic Practices

To reserve and harness the spiritual essence of Amritam, yogic practices focus on maintaining a balance of energies within the body. Here are some essential asanas (postures) and pranayamas (breathing techniques) that aid in this process:

Asanas

1. Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand): This inversion posture stimulates the thyroid gland and promotes the flow of Amritam from the head throughout the body.
2. Halasana (Plough Pose): Complementary to Sarvangasana, Halasana further enhances the circulation of the nectar by stimulating the neck and spine.
3. Matsyasana (Fish Pose): Often performed as a counterpose to Sarvangasana, Matsyasana helps open the chest and throat, facilitating the upward movement of Kundalini energy.
4. Shirsasana (Headstand): Known as the king of asanas, Shirsasana encourages the flow of Amritam towards the brain, invigorating the entire body and mind.

Pranayamas

1. Kapalabhati (Skull Shining Breath): This vigorous breathing technique purifies the nadis (energy channels), enhancing the flow of prana (life force) and ensuring the distribution of Amritam.
2. Anulom Vilom (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balancing the Ida and Pingala nadis, Anulom Vilom harmonizes the body’s energies, facilitating the experience of inner bliss.
3. Bhramari (Bee Breath): By creating a humming sound, Bhramari activates the pineal gland, associated with the secretion of melatonin, which is linked to the mystical experience of Amritam.
4. Ujjayi (Ocean Breath): This deep, rhythmic breathing technique calms the mind and regulates the flow of prana, making it conducive for spiritual practices that lead to the experience of Amritam.

Amritam, The Third Eye and Its Physical Location

The third eye, known as the "Ajna Chakra" in Sanskrit, is a significant energy center located between the eyebrows, slightly above the bridge of the nose. It is often referred to as the seat of intuition and inner vision. In physiological terms, this area is associated with the pineal gland, a small endocrine gland in the brain that produces melatonin, which regulates sleep-wake cycles and has been linked to spiritual experiences.

The Ajna Chakra is depicted as a two-petaled lotus, symbolizing duality transcended through the union of opposites. When this chakra is activated through yogic practices, it is said to open the mind to deeper spiritual truths and higher states of consciousness.

The phenomenon of Amritam dripping is closely tied to the activation of the third eye and the subsequent awakening of higher consciousness. According to yogic tradition, when the Kundalini energy ascends through the chakras and reaches the Sahasrara (crown chakra), it triggers the release of a subtle nectar from the Bindu point, an area at the top of the head near the third eye. This nectar, or Amritam, is described as a sweet, ambrosial substance that drips down into the throat, imparting a sense of bliss and spiritual rejuvenation.

In texts like the Hatha Yoga Pradipika, the Bindu point is considered vital for longevity and vitality. The practice of Khechari Mudra is specifically aimed at stimulating this point and preserving the nectar.

Khechari Mudra: The Tongue Lock

Khechari Mudra ( खेचरी मुद्रा), often called the "tongue lock," is a powerful yogic technique designed to direct the flow of Amritam and enhance spiritual experiences. 

Benefits of Khechari Mudra

• Enhances Concentration: By stimulating the third eye, Khechari Mudra improves focus and mental clarity.
• Promotes Longevity: According to yogic texts, the preservation of Amritam through this mudra contributes to health and vitality.
• Deepens Meditation: The practice aids in attaining deeper states of meditation and spiritual insight.
• Regulates Hormones: By stimulating the pineal gland, Khechari Mudra helps balance the endocrine system, particularly the regulation of melatonin.

Scientific Perspective

Modern science offers intriguing parallels to the yogic concept of Amritam, particularly through the lens of neurobiology and endocrinology. The pineal gland, often referred to as the "third eye" in yogic tradition, plays a crucial role in the regulation of sleep-wake cycles through melatonin production. Melatonin has been associated with anti-aging properties and overall well-being, akin to the rejuvenating qualities of Amritam.

Additionally, studies on the effects of meditation and pranayama have shown significant benefits in reducing stress, enhancing cognitive function, and improving emotional health. These scientific findings resonate with the yogic belief that these practices can help harness and preserve the essence of Amritam within the body.

The concept of Amritam in yoga is a profound metaphor for spiritual awakening and physical vitality. Through the practice of Khechari Mudra and the activation of the third eye, yogis aim to harness this divine nectar, facilitating a journey toward higher consciousness and inner bliss. By integrating these timeless

 

References

1. Bhagavad Gita
2. Shvetashvatara Upanishad
3. Hatha Yoga Pradipika
4. Yajnavalkya Samhita