Hatha Yoga: Mudras and How to Practise Them
The origin of Mudras is unknown but they are found all over the world. The word Mudra has many meanings. It may be a gesture, seal, symbol, mystical position or breathing technique. Dr Mukund V Bhole used to describe it as ‘that which brings delight’.
Hands being connected to the brain can influence or be influenced by specific areas of the brain and consciousness, help realign thoughts and connect with the universe. They are connected to the five elements that are within us and around us. The thumb controls the fire element, the index finger air, the middle finger space/ether, the ring finger Earth and the little finger with water.
Mudras can have a positive effect on many physical and mental health imbalances. There are specific mudras for specific conditions such as headaches, back problems, joints, asthma, bronchial problems and heart attacks.
Practice:
Mudras can be practised anywhere and at any time several times a day or as required.
They can be practised while you are sitting, lying, walking or standing. You need to be relaxed with your weight evenly distributed and body symmetrical.
Practise them Daily. Opinions differ as to how long Mudras should be held ranging from 45 minutes once a day for chronic illnesses or if not possible 3 sets of 15 minutes, discontinued when cured in acute illness and other mudras from 3 to 30 minutes 2 or 4 times a day depending on the Mudra.
There are 25 Mudras in Hatha yoga including hand, eye, body positions (asanas) and locks (bandhas). Initially we will look at hand mudras.
Hand Mudras:
There are 27 bones and 15 joints in our hands that working together have considerable dexterity and power. However they don’t always respond as we would like them to so the other hand can be used initially to control and hold rebellious fingers.
Depending on how fingers bend, extend, crossover or touch other fingers determines their effect and influence on the mind and body. When touching other fingers use a very light pressure with the hands relaxed. This may not happen initially but keep practising.
One to Practise – PALA MUDRA
This Mudra has a positive effect on the mind reducing stress, relieving anxiety and promoting mind clearness.
- Always practice sitting down in a comfortable relaxed position. Give yourself time to settle and spend a few minutes just following the breath watching it settle.
- Place your cupped left hand with the palm facing upwards just below your naval.
- Place your cupped right hand with the palm facing downwards just below your chest.
The palms are facing each other with a space between the heart and abdomen. Practice for at least 15 minutes a day if possible.
June Skeggs, YHET Member