Hasta mudras, or hand signals, are the most well-known
mudras, and they're often used in yoga, pranayama, and asanas (postures). The
Sanskrit word mudra means "seal," and the movements are used to
intensify the effects of prana flow. Some movements make you relax, while
others uplift you and bind you to something bigger than yourself.
There are several different hand mudras, but we'll go through four of the most familiar ones in pranayama. We can recommend certain mudras to use while we go over the strategies to help you further your practice.
1. Vishnu Mudra is most often used during the pranayama
technique known as adi Shodhana. Vishnu Mudra is often done with the right
hand, regardless of which is the main hand, since it represents the absorption
of positive energies.
This mudra mainly balances the first three chakras (root,
sacral, and navel centers) and is used in Nadi Shodhana to alternately block
the nostrils. It gives energetic entry to the higher centers since it balances
the base three energy centers.
2. Gyan Mudra is perhaps the most well-known mudra, as it
appears often in images and media depicting yoga, Hinduism, and Buddhism. It's
also a mudra that can be used in almost any pose or exercise. This is the mudra
to use while you're not sure what to do.
Attach the tips of your pointer fingers to the tips of your
thumbs on each side with your palms turned inward on your knees.
Enable the remaining three fingers to be stretched.
The tip of the pointer finger, which represents the lower
mind or ego, is connected to the tip of the thumb, which represents eternal
knowledge and awareness, in the Gyan Mudra. In essence, you're connecting to
the higher mind and gaining access to greater wisdom. This is a more energizing
mudra that opens you up to receptivity with the palms turned up on the feet.
3. Chin Mudra, also known as nana Mudra, is a common hand
gesture that is used to ground yourself during pranayama and meditation. It's like
Gyan Mudra in that it's pretty universal and a wonderful addition to the work.
Make a circle with your pointer fingers and the tips of your
fingertips, leaving the three remaining fingers extended. On your knees, turn
your palms inward.
Chin Mudra is a strong link to the root chakra that grounds
you to the earth. This mudra will help you re-ground yourself when you're
feeling frantic, nervous, or ungrounded.
4. Anjali Mudra, also known as prayer hands, can be used in pranayama and meditation, but it is also a traditional salutation or respect gesture in many cultures.
The hands meeting in the middle of your body reflect Anjali Mudra, which provides a harmony between the body and mind. This devotional mudra is all about connecting to a deep inner harmony as well as connecting to your spirit.
