Side view of woman sitting in lotus position on lakeshore with focus on stack of stones
Mudra dignifies hand gesture. There are dozens of mudras, and each represents a certain quality, such as compassion, courage or wisdom.
It is believed that through mudra practice, you can awaken the seeds of these states within you. It is the # citta-bhavana method , or ” cultivate a specific state of mind . “
Mudras are found in the art and rituals of many sacred traditions, including Hinduism, Buddhism and hatha yoga.
The Mudras are a symbolic gestures carried out with the mind, hands, feet, mouth, eyes or body. They are widely used in Yoga and Indian dances, revering various aspects of Hindu deities and nature.
The specific origins of mudras are unknown, but each gesture is believed to be the natural outward expression of an enlightened inner state. Many of the most well-known mudras represent the qualities of a bodhisattva , a yogi warrior who fights without fear of ending the suffering of all beings.
One can think of mudras as the sign language that springs from an open mind and an awakened heart.
The mudras contain a symbolism that aims to unify dualities, such as: uniting individual consciousness to cosmic consciousness; the solar prana to the lunar prana; matter to the spirit, etc. In the context of Hatha Yoga , mudras are elements that support your practice.
In Gheranda Samhita, classic text of Hatha Yoga, we find that “the useful process that collaborates in the practices of pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi is called mudra” (Souto, 2002).
The power of these seemingly simple gestures goes far beyond adding and easing focus to your practice. Practicing mudra during asana, meditation, Pranayama or kirtan (singing) will help you calm the gossip of your mind in the background.
With your hands on the heart chakra, gently press your fingers, grasp the palms of the hands with a small interior cavity. It is an excellent exercise to induce meditation, reduces stress and anxiety, providing harmony and calm.
2) Buddhi Mudra or Bhudi (balance):
Gathering the tips of the thumb and the little finger on both hands, press gently. The other fingers remain relaxed. It helps communication, regain balance of emotions, improve the functioning of the kidneys and bladder and increases the sense of taste.
The two gyan mudras below (Passive and Active) are the best known in yoga and act on the psychic and bodily level, symbolizing the harmony of consciousness.
3) Gyan Mudra – passive (awareness and knowledge):
Gathering the tips of the thumb and index finger in both hands, press gently. This Mudra acts on the psychic and spiritual level, helping to calm the responsiveness by improving the states of tension.
4) Gyan Mudra – active:
The gauge tips touch the first thumb joint putting pressure on the fingernail nail.
5) DhrmChakra:
Balance our inner energy for our physical and spiritual environment. It develops spiritual potential. Connecting us to the spiritual world, allowing us to obtain the help of other beings in the universe. It assists in hearing the voice of divinity and discovering our mission in life, revealing our past lives.
6) Ganesh Mudra (decision and firmness):
Hands on the chest, the palm of the left hand out and the palm of the right hand facing the body. Breathe in and pull your hands in the opposite direction for a few seconds, several times. Then change the position of the hand. Strengthens your chest area, stimulates heart activity and strengthens confidence.