Mudras

Mudras are a symbolic hand gesture that might be used in a yoga practice, such as in an asana, pranayama practice or meditation. It is a good way of staying concentrated because when we lose the concentration, the mudra will fall apart. Performing a mudra with the hands requires minimal physical effort, so can be practiced even if someone is not able to be physically active, perhaps as a result of illness, injury or old age.

The mudras are acting as a seal to help flow the channel of prana, life force in the body. They can help restore the chakra energies in the body. When specific mudras are used, the balance of the elements can be restored.

The fingers represent the different elements:

• Thumb - fire

• Index finger - air

• Middle finger - space

• Ring finger - earth

• Pinky finger - water

Understanding the meanings of the mudras can be empowering. Some common mudras are below:

Namaskar Mudra

The palms are together in prayer, in front of the chest. This mudra is often used in prayer and meditation and can help with focus and concentration. There is a feeling that the body is connected, through the palms, and it is thought to help connect the two sides of the brain. The hands are placed by the heart chakra. This mudra is also used as a greeting.

Chin Mudra

The index finger and thumb connect to make a circle, with the palms facing downwards. This mudra helps us feel grounded and uplifts our energy. With the palms facing downwards we don’t lose the prana energy. The mudra helps regulate emotion, promotes relaxation and relief from stress. It could be a useful mudra for someone who needs to feel grounded. You also have a subtle connection with the body with the connection of the thumb and the finger, and something to focus on.

Gyan/jnana Mudra

This is the same as Chin Mudra but the palms are facing upwards. Gyan or Jnana means knowledge or wisdom. It improves concentration and sends a signal to the universe that you are open to receive. We may have different levels of belief in the power of these gestures and different people may find some more effective than others. Self-belief is really powerful so if we feel we are being given this strength and wisdom from the universe we can take this feeling with us into our day.

Vayu Mudra

Vayu is Sanskrit for air. This mudra therefore balances the air element which is one of the five basic elements of our body and mind. It may be used in pranayama practice. This mudra is thought to help with respiratory problems as well as helping to strengthen the immune system and regulate hormones. The tip of the index finger comes to the base of the thumb and the thumb folds over it.

Dhyana Mudra

Dhyana is the Sanskrit word for meditation and this is a common mudra used for meditation and promotes a feeling of concentration. The palms face upwards and the right palm is placed over the left. The tips of the thumbs touch, pointing up to the sky. The gesture of the palms facing upwards indicates to the universe that you are open to receive.