Now mūrcchā: at the end of inhalation, firmly applying jālandhara bandha, exhale slowly. This called mūrcchā produces fainting of the mind and bestows happiness.

This verse introduces mūrcchā kumbhaka, whose name means “fainting” or “loss of consciousness.” Upon completing inhalation (pūrakānte), jālandhara bandha (throat lock) is applied firmly (gāḍhataram).

The technique produces manomūrcchā — a fainting or suspension of the ordinary mind. This is not pathological unconsciousness but a state of absorption where mental chatter ceases. Thoughts vanish like clouds dispersing, leaving a clear sky of awareness.

Sukhapradā — “bestower of happiness” — describes the quality of this state. It is a profoundly pleasant experience, free from the habitual agitations of the mind. Practitioners describe a sensation of floating, extreme lightness, and deep peace.