The Sanskrit word ‘Mudra’ means ‘gesture’, ‘to seal’. A symbolic or ritual gesture. Mudras can include positons of the eyes, body postures,
and in some cases breathing techniques are also Mudras, however, most Mudras involve the hands and fingers – ‘Hasta Mudras’.
Mudras enhance energy flow and are used to strengthen, calm, purify, and concentrate.
Their ultimate aim is to help the practitioner realise his or her full potential.
Sometimes known as ‘finger power points’, Hasta Mudras can be practised sitting, standing, lying down or even while walking.
However, Hasta Mudras are most often used during meditation and pranayama to help ‘control’ and ‘concentrate’ the mind.
Below are just a few examples of hast mudras.
If you are interested in finding out more about Mudras, a lot of fascinating information can be found in a wonderful book called:
Mudras - Yoga in your Hands by Gertrud Hirschi
(As I write this available on Amazon books)
Namaskara Mudra
The gesture of salutation. Hands are palm to palm with a small hollow space between them and held in front of the centre of the chest.
It is said to support inner balance, peace and harmony. It creates coordination between the left and right brain hemispheres.
In India it is also a gesture of greeting or thanks and shows respect for others.
Chin Mudra
In Chin Mudra the tip of the index finger and thumb touch to form a circle. This has several meanings including infinity, or the individual spirit bowing down to the Universal spirit.
The middle, ring and little fingers stay gently stretching away from the palm. Hands are placed palm down fingers slightly inwards on thighs below the groin area, elbows turned slightly out, shoulders relaxed.
Chin Mudra is sometimes used to enhance ‘Diaphragmatic’ or ‘Belly’ Breathing.
During meditation Chin Mudra can be used palm up or palm down according to preference.
The three extended fingers represent the three Gunas – qualities of energies that have a direct influence on our bodies and minds.
The little finger represents the Guna Tama and the quality of inertia. The energy is heavy or still.
The ring finger represents Rajas and the quality of stimulation and ‘self absorption’. The energy is active and fiery.
The middle finger represents Sattva and the quality of balance and peace. The energy is light and pure.
Chin Maya Mudra
This is the same as for Chin Mudra, except the three fingers are folded into the palm.
Sometimes used to enhance ‘Intercosta’ or ‘Rib’ Breathing
Adhi Mudra
Thumb folded in palm and four fingers closed over thumb. Hands are placed palm down, on the thighs just below the groin area, and turned slightly inwards as for Chin Mudra.
Sometimes used to enhance ‘Clavicular’ or ‘top chest’ breathing.
Brahma Mudra
The fingers are curled around the thumb as for Adhi Mudra; the knuckles come together palms upwards and placed just under the ‘v’ shape of the rib cage on the upper diaphragm area.
Sometimes used to enhance ‘Maya’ breath or the ‘full length’ breath.
Dhyani Mudra
The classic gesture of meditation, deep contemplation, and inner calm. Widely used in yoga and Buddhist traditions to quieten the mind, balance energy, and foster profound spiritual focus.
Rest the hands comfortably in your lap, right palm on top of left palm, facing upward. The tips of the thumbs touch lightly and point slightly upward, forming a small triangle. Resting one upon the other balances our inner forces. The upward-facing, open bowl shape of the hands symbolizes an inner calm, clarity, and positive energ
If you are interested in finding out more about Mudras, a lot of fascinating information can be found in a wonderful book called:
Mudras - Yoga in your Hands by Gertrud Hirschi
(As I write this available on Amazon books)
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