What are Mudras?
Mudras are gestures inspired by traditional Indian dances, performed with a specific part of the body, in order to create a particular energy and to act on the physical body as well as on the mind and psychology. Hasta Mudras , which we will focus on specifically here, are movements performed with the hands; they are even nicknamed "finger yoga".
Etymology, what does the word "mudra" mean?
Like many Sanskrit terms, the word mudra has multiple meanings. The literal translation of mudra means “seal,” or “symbol,” and in the sacred dances of India, a mudra is a representation of a given mood or situation. If we break the word down, “mu” means happiness and “dru” means to emphasize; making mudra a tool for improving overall health and being in a positive frame of mind.
Energy and elements of mudras
By using specific points, working on the meridians in order to control energy, the practice of mudras is similar to the reflexology that we know and apply today.
In the Vedic tradition (ancient wisdom of India), each finger is connected to an element, of which there are 5.
- Thumb: fire (agni)
- Index: air (vayu)
- Major: ether (akasha)
- Ring finger: earth (prithvi)
- Little finger: water (jala)
The 3 main mudras
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Jnana Mudra
This mudra , conducive to meditation, is very present in the collective imagination and is often represented in yoga. The thumb and index finger meet, the palm of the hand is turned to face the sky. Not only does it connect fire and air, but this mudra brings the individual together with the Universe, allowing him to refocus on his own beliefs and desires.
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Atmanjali Mudra
Both hands are joined in front of the heart, in the form of prayer, with the fingers together and pointing towards the sky. This mudra brings together the yin and yang polarities and unites the two hemispheres of the brain. It is used to restore harmony and express gratitude to the Universe, during meditation for example.
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Prana Mudra
Here, the ring finger (representing earth), the little finger (water) and the thumb (symbolizing fire) come together to help the body purify itself and increase vital energy. The action of fire burns what is no longer necessary for the functioning of the body and mind, cleaning out obsolete emotions, which are evacuated with water. Cell regeneration is supported by earth.
Although it is best to create a setting conducive to their practice, the advantage of mudras is that they do not require a particular context such as yoga or meditation. Indeed, you will be able to perform them in a queue, before going to bed, or in any other situation of everyday life.
To your hands!
