Friends, as mentioned in the previous section, while practicing the method described in Sutra 55 of the Vigyan Bhairav Tantra, it is crucial that your mind remains free from negativity, harmful thoughts, hatred, or anger. Engage in this practice only when you feel calm and positive.

Through this method, you can consciously choose your dreams and even revisit unfinished ones. By mastering this technique, you can gain control over your dreams, shaping them as desired. Remarkably, the dreams created through this method may manifest in reality. With deeper expertise, you may even gain insight into future events. However, this requires the ability to discern between illusions created by the mind and genuine visions of the future. Since this practice inevitably involves confronting illusions or maya, proceed only if you feel confident, free of fear or doubt, or under the guidance of an expert.

Understanding the Method of Sutra 55

The method consists of three stages. Begin with the first stage and progress gradually. Do not attempt to combine all stages at once. Master each stage sequentially before advancing to the next.

Once you have mastered the first stage, you may practice the second stage at night before sleep. Until you gain control over your breath as required in this stage, practice at any convenient time.

The final stage should only be practiced at night before sleep and in a setting where you can lie down comfortably during the process. However, this stage should be attempted only when your breath becomes long, deep, and resonant, as described. Until then, you may practice this stage during the day.

Sutra 55 – First Stage

In the first stage, sit in Siddhasana or Sukhasana with your spine straight. Close your eyes and direct your focus to the point between your eyebrows, slightly above where a tilak is applied. Let your gaze rest internally on this spot, keeping your eyes closed. Once your focus stabilizes and your eyes stop wavering, shift your attention to your breath.

You may also choose to focus on the Anahata (heart chakra) or Vishuddha (throat chakra) while maintaining awareness of your breath.

Sutra 55 – Second Stage

In the second stage, focus on your breath and gradually make it long and deep, ensuring each inhalation and exhalation produces a natural sound. If the sound is absent, it indicates that your breath has not yet achieved sufficient depth and length. When your breath becomes long and deep, you will hear the sound naturally.

The essence of this stage is to synchronize your awareness with the sound of your breath. With consistent practice, your mind will begin to slow, and eventually, its chatter will fade away.

As you focus on your breath, you may feel that it flows through the Ajna (third eye), Anahata (heart), or Vishuddha (throat) chakra. This connection is a pivotal aspect of the practice.

With prolonged practice of deep breathing accompanied by sound, you may feel a sensation of drowsiness or a state of mental emptiness. Thoughts will cease, leaving only the sound of your breath. Achieving this state signifies mastery of the second stage. Continue practicing until this state becomes natural.

Sutra 55 – Final Stage

In the final stage, as you deepen your practice of long, resonant breaths, you will begin to feel sleepy. When this sensation arises, try to sit a little longer. If you can no longer remain seated, lie down in the same spot without disrupting your focus or breath.

As you lie down and continue the practice, you will notice your attention and breath naturally centering on the Anahata (heart chakra). This marks the beginning of your journey into the dream realm.

Here, you will feel as though you have fallen asleep, disconnecting from the outer world, yet simultaneously, you will be aware of your state. This is the threshold where your subconscious mind becomes accessible, even as your conscious mind remains alert.

With continued practice, this state will reveal new experiences daily. Over time, you will gain mastery over both your conscious and subconscious mind. You will be able to choose and shape your dreams at will. Since these dreams arise from the conscious state and are witnessed by the subconscious, they hold the potential to manifest in reality—provided you work towards them with dedication and planning.

With advanced practice, you can revisit and resume unfinished dreams. Moreover, this mastery may offer glimpses into future events and even insights into the nature of your own death.

Important Reminders

As you practice this technique, avoid forcing yourself or straining your body or mind. Progress at a steady, gradual pace. Forced effort may yield temporary results but can ultimately lead to misguidance and negative outcomes. Patience and consistency will ensure lasting mastery and positive effects.

Even five minutes of sincere, focused practice is more effective than hours of forced effort. The quality of practice is far more important than its duration or frequency.

Disclaimer

The information provided here is based on personal experiences and insights derived from this sutra. It is shared solely for informational purposes and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. If you choose to practice this method, it is entirely at your own discretion. The author assumes no responsibility for any physical or mental discomfort that may arise. Should you experience any adverse effects, consult a qualified healthcare professional immediately.