The complete extension of the tongue: twelve fingers (aṅgulas) backward, touching the deep soft palate. This is only possible after chedana and prolonged practice.

Initially it requires effort (yatnena) to maintain the tongue backward. Over time it becomes natural, “relaxed” (śithilitā), without conscious tension.

The twelve fingers correspond approximately to the entire length of the palate up to the uvula. The tongue touches the point where the hard palate meets the soft palate.