We do not need to kill the snake. We do not need to destroy our thoughts. We just need to ask them, with respect and firmness, to move aside so that something more beautiful (stillness, peace, Bhadram ) can take the stage.
Why?
In Yogic anatomy, we have the Kundalini —a dormant, primordial energy visualized as a serpent coiled three and a half times at the base of the spine. apa sarpa sarpa bhadram
Feel how the tongue flicks like a snake’s tongue? The mantra literally enacts the movement it describes. By speaking of the serpent, you become the serpent—gliding, aware, and slick with the oil of consciousness. You don't need to live in a forest to use this mantra. In fact, you probably need it more than the ancient yogis did. We are surrounded by psychic snakes: notifications, traffic jams, toxic conversations, and self-doubt. We do not need to kill the snake
Move aside, dear one. Move aside with grace. The auspicious moment is now. The mantra literally enacts the movement it describes
Here is a modern practice:
In ancient India, yogis often meditated in forests, caves, or open fields. The ground was home to many creatures: ants, scorpions, and snakes. Before placing their body down into deep stillness (where they would be unaware of their physical surroundings), the yogi would chant this mantra. It was a vibration sent into the earth to say: