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MUDRAS:
Mudras, or hand positions, work with the natural energy vortices located in the palms of the
hands and fingers. When we place the fingers together to create certain shapes, we redirect this
energy back into the body. Think of it as creating antennae with your hands. Mudras can bring
focus and attention to certain areas of the body through breath awareness, they can also have
an immediate affect on the emotions. They and may not be felt as strongly as the asanas.
However, the practice is very valuable and can bring us more in tune with the inner workings of
our mind, body, and emotions.
Notes on Practicing Mudras:
- Each mudra has an effect on the emotions, breath, body, mind and spirit.
- You can use mudras during meditation, asana, pranayama, restorative poses.
- You can also use mudras while on the phone, on the bus, or during a stressful situation.
- Try each mudra for at least 5-15 minutes so that you can feel its effects fully.
- Sometimes you will feel a stronger energy change when you release a mudra that has
been held for a few minutes.
- Try meditating with the same mudra every day for a week to feel its cumulative effects.
Energy of the Hands and Fingers:
- Thumb - Upper throat and lungs, immunity, freedom
- Index Finger - Heart, respiration, circulation, opening
- Middle Finger - Solar plexus, spine, detoxification, energizing
- Ring Finger - Abdominal organs, digestion, balance
- Little Finger - Base of body, elimination, grounding
Mudra Index: Healing - Meditating - Grounding - Energizing - Therapeutic Index
This information is adapted from Professional Yoga Therapist Manual, Integrative Yoga Therapy, Joseph LePage, 2007. For more information on Mudras, please visit the Library.
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