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When I started Yoga Teacher Training I did not know what Yoga mudras were or the meaning behind Yoga mudras. Yoga mudras are gestures that come in many forms. Normally a mudra involves the hands and fingers but they also include eye and body positions. Mudras are commonly used during yoga practice and/or meditation.
Essence of Mudras
Many people believe that mudras can awaken energy when coupled with breathing techniques, certain postures, and meditation. Each finger represents an element:
- Thumb represents Fire – Solar
PlexisChakra Indexfinger represents Air – Heart Chakra
- Middle finger represents Ether (space) – Throat Chakra
- Ring finger represents Earth – Root Chakra
- Little finger (pinky) represents Water – Sacral Chakra
Holding a Mudra
Under this philosophy, when a person touches their finger to his/her thumb, that finger becomes charged with the fire element. This balances and purifies that element.
The mudras establish electromagnetic currents in order to wake up energetic flows in the body. The suggested times to hold a mudra vary however make sure you exert enough pressure between the thumb and finger so that you are able to feel the flow of energy. Keep the hands relaxed and hold gestures with both left and right hands.
Indian researcher Keshav Dev suggests holding one mudra daily for 45 minutes or three 15-minute periods for chronic concerns. Other Masters believe that the recommended time depends on the individual.
Types of Mudras
There are hundreds of potential mudras. Here are a few of my favorites:
Mudras can be very beneficial for the mind and body. Try a few of these during your practice (where it feels comfortable and easeful to do so), and/or try in your mediations or just when you are practicing your breathing, and see if, after a few times, you see a benefit.
Here is an economical mudra book on Amazon that gives a great breakdown of yoga mudras.