

Whether you believe that Mudras have genuine power or that they are hippie woo-woo, many of us feel something exquisite when we introduce Mudras into our practice. Thus, through pressing, touching, curling or pointing our fingers or hands in different ways, we can direct energy flow to specific parts of the body and brain, stimulating particular emotions, reactions and effects. Each of these elements has a distinct role in the balance of our physical body, state of mind and mental well-being. In the Mudra philosophy, it is believed that our 5 fingers correspond to the 5 elements of the universe - water, earth, ether, air and fire. Mudras are hand gestures used in yoga and meditation, which mean ‘mark’ or ‘seal’ in Sanskrit. Here you'll discover the meaning of the Mudras and 12 of our favourites you can have a shot at during your yoga or meditation practice. So roll out your Honest Yoga Mat, pull on an E.C.O. Yoga is certainly susceptible to cultish undertones, but fear not, you haven't unknowingly been initiated into a local gang. These hand gestures are called Mudras, and constitute an important part of yoga philosophy.


You're in your first yoga class and you're just getting the hang of it, only for the teacher to start instructing the class to perform bizarre hand gestures - touching this on that and that with this. It’s been a go-to for challenging times in my life, as well as has touched the hearts – literally – of so many of the students I serve.Picture this. I want to thank my teacher, Indu Arora, for sharing this beautiful practice with me many years ago.

soften or close your eyes, and practice 1:1 mindful, diaphragmatic breathing with the intention of healing your heart.touch the tip of the thumb to the tips of the middle AND ring fingers.fold your index finger in towards the center of your palm.find a quiet place and sit comfortably with your spine tall.Sometimes known as Mrta Sanjivani Mudra (one that brings along life from death), this mudra has many benefits and is for anyone with physical or mental/emotional heart conditions for help in symptom relief and letting go. Apana Vayu Mudra is in the category of therapeutic mudras and is done with one or both hands. A mudra is a seal created with the body to help link up and expand our prana in a particular way. Although everyone is different, one of my favorite tools to use that most people can benefit from is a very special and effective practice called Apana Vayu Mudra. By Tanya Boigenzahn, ERYT 500, C-IAYT, RTT, AYS, CHTP, YACEP, & Reiki MasterĬertified ParaYoga® Level III Teacher & Four Desires TrainerĪs a yoga teacher trainer and Ayurvedic Yoga Therapist, I often get asked what are my top “go-to’s” for balance and well-being.
