Mudras

Hi guys, today I like to answer one question which is frequently asked.

What does “Mudra” mean and what is it ?

Mudra is a Sanskrit word for mark or gesture.  In Hatha Yoga we use a lot of hand gestures when we do meditation or breathing exercises. You also find them in Asanas, for example in Natarajasana/Lord Shivas Pose (a balancing pose with a straight arm performing Jnana Mudra). They help you connect and have influence on the energy flow in our bodies. Some mudras involve parts of the body or even the whole body!  Amazing how these “small” gestures can help us concentrate and focus more and even redirect the energy flow in our bodies.

Try it, and then really be aware of when you are holding your index and thumb finger together performing a mudra and all the many nerve roots in your fingertips are connecting, allowing a stimulation, an energy flow and redirecting the flow into your body!

Let me introduce 4 different Hand gestures you can use and which we often use in our practise of meditation, pranayama and asanas

1.Chin Mudra

 

Thumb and index finger are touching and forming an O.  All other fingers are relaxed but slightly apart. It is said that this is the gesture of consciousness. When you use it in a meditation pose, place your hands on your knees with the palms facing upwards (receiving pose). You face your palms upward showing you are open in mind and consciousness.

2. Jnana Mudra

This Mudra is said to be the Gesture of “knowledge” and is performed in the same way as Chin Mudra except that you place your hands on your knees with the palms facing downwards (“giving pose”). Also here the thumb and index finger touch and, along with the knees, they connect and redirect the prana (energy flow) into the body and brain. You also use the Jnana Mudra for meditation and breathing techniques.

3. Dhyani Mudra

 

Right hand will be placed comfortable on the left hand, both palms facing upwards, thumbs can touch. Both hands rest in your lap completely relaxed while you do your meditation or breathing exercise. You have probably already seen this mudra on pictures or statues of Buddhas. The mudra is symbolizing freedom coming from the inside, purity, and emptiness.

4. Nasagra Mudra, nose tip position

Index and middle finger are placed between the eyebrows, and your  thumb, ring finger, and small finger are relaxed on the sides of your face. Your index finger and your middle finger should be straight. While having the index and middle finger on the spot between your eyebrows you will probably develop a very relaxed feeling, being able to concentrate better and focus more, e.g. on your breathing exercise as in Anuloma Viloma.

Have fun in exploring and trying out these Mudra exercises.  You are very welcome to share your experiences with me in sending a comment and a LIKE. For further information, please click on the underlined green words!       And to access my webpage, click here: AboutHathaYoga.com

Many thanks, muchas gracias und vielen Dank!!