What is Mahamudra? Explained by Aura

Aura Health Team
Written by
Aura Health Team
Aura Health is a community of hundreds of top coaches, therapists, and storytellers worldwide. We are here to provide the world’s most extensive, personalized collection of mental wellness content & services.
Aura Health Team
Written by
Aura Health Team
Aura Health is a community of hundreds of top coaches, therapists, and storytellers worldwide. We are here to provide the world’s most extensive, personalized collection of mental wellness content & services.
What is Mahamudra? Explained by AuraWhat is Mahamudra? Explained by Aura
Key Takeaways

Mahamudra, a term derived from Sanskrit, is a central concept in the practice of meditation, particularly within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. The term can be translated as "great seal" or "great symbol," and it refers to a state of direct and non-conceptual realization of the ultimate nature of mind. This realization is said to lead to liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment.

How are you feeling?
Search below to see if we have a meditation or wellness track for whatever you’re feeling. Just enter your mood and take our short quiz.
Topics
Angry
Fearful
Abundance
Grateful
Tired
Restless
Motivated
Great
Okay
Acceptance and Commitment
Affirmations
Anger
Astrology
Attachments
Balance Emotions
Bedtime
Bible Story
Bible Talks
Binaural
Body Acceptance
Body Scan
Burnout
Calm
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
Communication
Compassion
Confidence
Couples Sex Issues
Courage
Depression
Dialectical Behavior Therapy
Discipline
Diversity
Divorce
Emotional Intelligence
Empathy
Energy Healing
Equity and Inclusion
Fear
Food Freedom
Gratitude
Grief
Grounding
Positivity & Happiness
Recovery & Healing
Health
Health Coaching
Hope
Hypnosis
Infidelity
Insomnia
Intimacy
Kids
Law Of Attraction
Leadership
Letting Go
Lgbtq
Life Advice
Life Coaching
Anxiety
Confidence & Self-esteem
Motivation & Passion
Relationships
Life Coaching Sleep
Stress
Personal Growth & Success
Transition
Life Lessons
Loss
Love
Loving Kindness
Manifesting
Marriage
Meaning
Meditation Story
Meditative
Learn Mindfulness
Mindset
Moticational
Motivation
Delightful
Dreamy
Energetic
Focus
Epic
Ethereal
Fun
Gloomy
Happy
Heart Warming
Hopeful
Inspiring
Joyful
Melancholic
Mellow
Optimistic
Playful
Powerful
Reflective
Relaxation
Relaxing
Sad
Serene
Sleep
Soaring
Somber
Soothing
Tranquil
Upbeat
Uplifting
Nature Sounds
Nutrition
Pain
Parenting
Peace
Performance
Personal Growth
Pleasure
Positive Emotions
Positive Psychology
Positivity
Prayer
Pregnancy
Progressive Muscle Relaxation
Reiki
Relax
Release Negativity
Remote Work
Resilience
Self Acceptance
Self Awareness
Self Care
Self Esteem
Self Regulation
Confidence & Self-Love
Sexuality
Restful Sleep
Smoking
Sobriety
Social Skills
Solfeggio
Somatics
Sound Bath
Spirit Guides
Spirituality
Story
Strengths
Reduce Stress
Substance Use
Success
Tapping
Throat Chakra
Tough Conversations
Transformational
Uncertainty
Visualization
Weight Loss
Work
Work Languages
Work Values
Workplace Wellness
Yoga & Movement
Yoga Nidra
Zen
Centered
Content
Fulfilled
Patient
Peaceful
Present
Relaxed
Trusting
Agitated
Aggravated
Bitter
Contempt
Cynical
Disdain
Disgruntled
Disturbed
Edgy
Exasperated
Frustrated
Furious
Grouchy
Hostile
Impatient
Irritated
Irate
Moody
On edge
Outraged
Pissed
Resentful
Upset
Vindictive
Amazed
Awe
Bliss
Delighted
Eager
Ecstatic
Enchanted
Energized
Engaged
Enthusiastic
Excited
Free
Inspired
Invigorated
Lively
Passionate
Radiant
Refreshed
Rejuvenated
Renewed
Satisfied
Thrilled
Vibrant
Adventurous
Brave
Capable
Confident
Daring
Determined
Grounded
Proud
Strong
Worthy
Valiant
Accepting
Affectionate
Caring
Safe
Warm
Curious
Exploring
Fascinated
Interested
Intrigued
Involved
Stimulated
Anguish
Depressed
Despondent
Disappointed
Discouraged
Forlorn
Heartbroken
Hopeless
Lonely
Longing
Melancholy
Sorrow
Teary
Unhappy
Weary
Yearning
Aloof
Bored
Confused
Distant
Empty
Indifferent
Isolated
Lethargic
Listless
Removed
Resistant
Shut Down
Uneasy
Withdrawn
Ashamed
Humiliated
Inhibited
Mortified
Self - conscious
Useless
Weak
Worthless
Afraid
Anxious
Apprehensive
Frightened
Hesitant
Nervous
Panic
Paralyzed
Scared
Terrified
Worried
Helpless
Sensitive
Appreciative
Blessed
Fortunate
Grace
Humbled
Lucky
Moved
Thankful
Touched
Regret
Remorseful
Sorry
Encouraged
Expectant
Impotent
Incapable
Resigned
Trapped
Victim
Loving
Self - loving
Vulnerable
Burned out
Cranky
Depleted
Exhausted
Frazzled
Overwhelm
Rattled
Rejecting
Shaken
Tight
Worn out
Concerned
Dissatisfied
Perplexed
Questioning
Reluctant
Shocked
Skeptical
Suspicious
Ungrounded
Unsure
Achy
Airy
Blocked
Breathless
Bruised
Burning
Buzzy
Clammy
Clenched
Cold
Constricted
Contained
Contracted
Dizzy
Drained
Dull
Electric
Expanded
Flowing
Fluid
Fluttery
Frozen
Full
Gentle
Hard
Heavy
Hollow
Hot
Icy
Itchy
Jumpy
Knotted
Light
Loose
Nauseous
Numb
Pounding
Prickly
Pulsing
Queasy
Radiating
Releasing
Rigid
Settled
Shaky
Shivery
Slow
Smooth
Soft
Sore
Spacey
Spacious
Sparkly
Stiff
Still
Suffocated
Sweaty
Tender
Tense
Throbbing
Tingling
Trembly
Twitchy
Vibrating
Wobbly
Wooden
Topics
Sleep
Topics
Anxiety
Content type
Affirmations
ASMR
Breathwork
Diversity and Inclusion
Emotional Intelligence
Energy Healing
Health Coaching
Hypnosis
Life Coaching
Masterclass
Mindfulness
Motivation
Music
Personal Story
Podcast
Poem
Positive Psychology
Prayer
Intimacy & Relationships
Healing Sound
Soundscape
Spirituality
Story
CBT
Work Wellness
Track length
< 5 min
5-10 min
10-20 min
20-45 min
45+ min
Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.
1000+
Tracks for you based on your preferences
Get unlimited access to 20,000+ meditations, sleep, and wellness tracks on Aura
Whats included
Fall asleep faster, reduce stress and anxiety, and find peace every day
Exclusive content from top mindfulness experts, psychologists, and therapists
Join live sessions & connect with the community
New content added every week
Lets personalize your experience

The practice of Mahamudra involves a combination of meditation techniques, philosophical insights, and ethical disciplines. It is a comprehensive path that aims to integrate all aspects of one's life into the path of spiritual awakening. The teachings on Mahamudra are considered to be of profound depth and subtlety, requiring careful study and dedicated practice.

Historical Background of Mahamudra

The origins of Mahamudra can be traced back to the early centuries of Buddhism in India. The term itself appears in several early Buddhist texts, where it is used to denote the ultimate reality or the highest truth. However, the specific teachings and practices associated with Mahamudra developed over many centuries, incorporating influences from various Buddhist schools and traditions.

One of the key figures in the development of Mahamudra was the Indian master Tilopa (988-1069), who is credited with formulating the system of practices known as the "Six Yogas of Naropa." These practices, which include techniques for working with the subtle energy channels and winds of the body, form a central part of the Mahamudra tradition.

Transmission of Mahamudra to Tibet

The teachings on Mahamudra were transmitted to Tibet in the 11th century by the Indian master Marpa, who studied under Naropa and other great masters in India. Marpa's student Milarepa is one of the most revered figures in Tibetan Buddhism, and his songs and teachings are still widely studied and practiced today.

Over the centuries, the teachings on Mahamudra have been preserved and developed within several of the major schools of Tibetan Buddhism, including the Kagyu, Sakya, and Gelug schools. Each of these schools has its own unique approach to Mahamudra, reflecting different interpretations and emphases.

The Philosophy of Mahamudra

The philosophy of Mahamudra is based on the understanding that the ultimate nature of mind is empty of inherent existence, yet luminous and cognizant. This nature is often described as being like the sky, which is empty yet capable of displaying all kinds of appearances.

The realization of this nature is said to bring about a profound transformation of one's experience. All phenomena are seen as manifestations of this empty-luminous nature, and thus everything is recognized as sacred and enlightened. This realization is described as being beyond words and concepts, yet it can be pointed to through various metaphors and analogies.

The View of Mahamudra

The view of Mahamudra is the understanding that all phenomena, both samsara (the cycle of birth and death) and nirvana (liberation from samsara), are inseparable from the ultimate nature of mind. This view is often expressed through the metaphor of the wave and the ocean: just as a wave is not separate from the ocean, so all phenomena are not separate from the ultimate nature of mind.

This view is not something to be believed in or accepted on faith, but something to be directly realized through meditation. The goal of Mahamudra practice is to directly realize this view, and to integrate this realization into every aspect of one's life.

The Meditation of Mahamudra

The meditation of Mahamudra involves a variety of techniques, including calm abiding (shamatha), insight (vipashyana), and non-meditation. These techniques are used to calm the mind, to investigate the nature of mind, and to rest in the natural state of mind without fabrication or manipulation.

The practice of Mahamudra meditation is said to lead to the direct realization of the ultimate nature of mind, which is described as being beyond all concepts and categories. This realization is said to bring about a profound transformation of one's experience, leading to liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment.

The Stages of Mahamudra Practice

The practice of Mahamudra is often described in terms of stages or paths, which provide a roadmap for the spiritual journey. These stages include the preliminary practices (ngondro), the main practices (the Six Yogas of Naropa), and the completion practices (the practices of the bardo and phowa).

The preliminary practices are designed to purify the mind and prepare it for the main practices. These practices include prostrations, mandala offerings, guru yoga, and the recitation of the Vajrasattva mantra. These practices are said to accumulate merit and wisdom, and to purify obscurations and negative karma.

aura_ring
Is Aura right for you?Take our quiz to find out.

The Main Practices of Mahamudra

The main practices of Mahamudra include the Six Yogas of Naropa, which are a set of advanced meditation techniques designed to work with the subtle energy channels and winds of the body. These practices include tummo (inner heat), illusory body, dream yoga, clear light, bardo (intermediate state), and phowa (transference of consciousness).

These practices are said to lead to the direct realization of the ultimate nature of mind, and to the attainment of the rainbow body, a state of complete liberation and enlightenment. These practices require careful guidance and supervision, and are usually only taught to advanced practitioners who have completed the preliminary practices and received the necessary empowerments and instructions.

The Completion Practices of Mahamudra

The completion practices of Mahamudra include the practices of the bardo and phowa, which are designed to prepare the practitioner for the process of death and rebirth. The bardo practices involve meditations on the stages of death and the intermediate state between death and rebirth, while the phowa practices involve techniques for transferring the consciousness at the time of death.

These practices are said to enable the practitioner to navigate the process of death and rebirth with awareness and control, and to attain liberation in the bardo or in the next life. These practices require careful guidance and supervision, and are usually only taught to advanced practitioners who have completed the main practices and received the necessary empowerments and instructions.

The Benefits of Mahamudra Practice

The benefits of Mahamudra practice are said to be vast and profound. On a relative level, the practice can lead to a reduction in stress and anxiety, an increase in peace and happiness, and an improvement in health and well-being. On an ultimate level, the practice can lead to the direct realization of the ultimate nature of mind, liberation from suffering, and the attainment of enlightenment.

The practice of Mahamudra is said to be particularly beneficial in the modern world, where many people are suffering from stress, anxiety, and other mental health issues. The practice can provide a powerful antidote to these problems, offering a path of inner peace and liberation.

Relative Benefits of Mahamudra Practice

On a relative level, the practice of Mahamudra can bring about a variety of benefits. These include a reduction in stress and anxiety, an increase in peace and happiness, an improvement in concentration and mindfulness, and a deepening of compassion and wisdom. These benefits can have a positive impact on all areas of one's life, including relationships, work, and health.

The practice of Mahamudra can also lead to a deepening of one's spiritual life, providing a path of inner transformation and awakening. The practice can help to purify the mind, to cultivate positive qualities, and to overcome negative habits and patterns. It can also lead to a deepening of one's understanding of the nature of reality, and to a direct experience of the ultimate nature of mind.

Ultimate Benefits of Mahamudra Practice

On an ultimate level, the practice of Mahamudra can lead to the direct realization of the ultimate nature of mind, which is described as being empty of inherent existence, yet luminous and cognizant. This realization is said to bring about a profound transformation of one's experience, leading to liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment.

The realization of the ultimate nature of mind is said to be beyond words and concepts, yet it can be pointed to through various metaphors and analogies. For example, it is often compared to the sky, which is empty yet capable of displaying all kinds of appearances. This realization is said to be the ultimate goal of all Buddhist practice, and the highest achievement of human life.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Mahamudra is a central concept in the practice of meditation, particularly within the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. It refers to a state of direct and non-conceptual realization of the ultimate nature of mind, which is said to lead to liberation from suffering and the attainment of enlightenment.

The practice of Mahamudra involves a combination of meditation techniques, philosophical insights, and ethical disciplines. It is a comprehensive path that aims to integrate all aspects of one's life into the path of spiritual awakening. The teachings on Mahamudra are considered to be of profound depth and subtlety, requiring careful study and dedicated practice.

Aura Health Team

Aura Health is a community of hundreds of top coaches, therapists, and storytellers worldwide. We are here to provide the world’s most extensive, personalized collection of mental wellness content & services.

March 1, 2024
Glossary

The best sleep of your life is just the start

From meditations to stories to cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), find everything you need for your wellbeing in one app.

Most popular in Meditation
Most popular in Story
Most popular in Hypnosis
Most popular in Coaching
Most popular in Therapy
Most popular in Prayer
Most popular in ASMR
Most popular in Health coaching
Most popular in Breathwork
Most popular in Work Wellness
Most popular in Music
Most popular in Sounds
Preview
0:00
0:00
No items found.
How to Lucid Dream Tonight: A Step-by-Step Guide
June 5, 2023

How to Lucid Dream Tonight: A Step-by-Step Guide

Discover how to lucid dream tonight with this comprehensive step-by-step guide.

Read More
Understanding the Immediate Effects of Lexapro
July 1, 2023

Understanding the Immediate Effects of Lexapro

Discover the immediate effects of Lexapro, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, and gain a deeper understanding of how it impacts the body and mind.

Read More
7 Calming Backgrounds to Help You Relax
July 1, 2023

7 Calming Backgrounds to Help You Relax

Discover 7 serene and soothing backgrounds that are perfect for unwinding and finding inner peace.

Read More
Vagus Nerve Meditation: Finding Your Inner Calm
July 1, 2023

Vagus Nerve Meditation: Finding Your Inner Calm

Discover the power of Vagus Nerve Meditation and learn how to tap into your inner calm.

Read More
The Benefits of Lying Down: How It Can Improve Your Health and Well-Being
July 1, 2023

The Benefits of Lying Down: How It Can Improve Your Health and Well-Being

Discover the surprising benefits of lying down and how it can improve your overall health and well-being.

Read More
Creating a Meditation Room for Relaxation and Well-Being
July 1, 2023

Creating a Meditation Room for Relaxation and Well-Being

Discover the essential steps to create a serene and peaceful meditation room in your home, designed to promote relaxation and enhance your overall well-being.

Read More
What Is Past Life Regression? Exploring the Benefits and Potential Risks
July 1, 2023

What Is Past Life Regression? Exploring the Benefits and Potential Risks

Discover the concept of past life regression and delve into its potential benefits and risks.

Read More
What Does the 808 Angel Number Mean?
July 1, 2023

What Does the 808 Angel Number Mean?

Discover the meaning behind the 808 angel number and how it can provide guidance and insight into your life.

Read More
Is Trazodone an SSRI?
July 1, 2023

Is Trazodone an SSRI?

Discover the truth about Trazodone and its classification as an SSRI.

Read More

Stay Updated: Get the latest from Aura's Mindfulness Blog

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.