Mudra or hand gesture represents the special position of the fingers and hands, which is used to restore inner balance and healing. The Sanskrit word mudra means ‘sign’ or ‘gesture’.
Although it is not entirely clear where exactly this system of gestures originated, it has been established that it was used in one way or another by almost all ancient cultures. It is unknown exactly how many mudras there are. Almost every possible position of the palms and fingers is some type of mudra. Each type has a specific effect on the body and mind because it helps to balance psychic centers (chakras) and energy channels (Nadis).
How often do you incorporate mudras in your meditation? Let’s look at some of the most famous mudras used in meditation.
Jnana or chin mudra
This is probably the most famous mudra related to meditations, and we can find it in many religions and spiritual traditions.
You practice this mudra holding your hands upwards, connecting the thumb and index finger on each hand so that they are lightly touching, and extend the other three fingers.
The joining of the thumb and forefinger symbolically unites the universal, divine consciousness with your consciousness. This mudra, which is usually performed during meditation or pranayama, helps you remove bad energy, calms your mind, improves sleep, and generally contributes to a calm and good mood.
Anjali mudra
You practice this mudra by joining your palms in front of your heart in a “prayer position,” without squeezing them too tightly. When you fold your arms before your heart you unite matter and spirit, and you connect the left and right sides of the brain.
With Anjali mudra, you express respect for yourself, for others, and the whole universe. This mudra naturally protects your aura from external influences. It balances your energy and directs your focus inward.
Dhyana mudra
Dhyana mudra is performed by gently placing the right palm in the left (hands form the shape of a bowl) and joining the thumbs so that they form a small triangle. The hands are placed on the lap, looking up.
Dhyana mudra is the mudra of meditation or concentration and balances the left and right sides of the body, calms the mind, and contributes to deep concentration. This mudra helps progress in meditation because it improves concentration and has a calming effect, so it should be practiced for at least ten minutes a day.
Prithvi mudra
Prithvi mudra is done by connecting the ring finger with the thumb, so that they are touching, while extending other three-fingers, as much as possible.
It removes weakness and strengthens tired and weak organs in the body. It is said to be good for those who have deficiencies of some vitamins and minerals in the body, and that it is good for the skin, bones, hair, and nails. Improves tolerance and patience.
Prana Mudra
This mudra is performed when the tip of the thumb and the tips of the little and middle fingers are joined. Symbolizes the vital energy of prana, so if you have a lack of life energy, this mudra is excellent. Activates inactivated energy in the body therefore it is good to use in the morning and whenever we need extra energy.
There are a lot of mudras, each of them with special benefits for our bodies and minds. The mudras can have a healing effect if applied correctly and long enough, and they can be done on every occasion according to our needs, on a walk, in a meeting, while you are resting, but they will be most effective when incorporated into your meditation.