Mudras or hand gestures are finger and hand formations that are said to encourage certain energy paths. This is done in an effort to bring higher awareness and healing when the gesture is held for a longer period of time.
Every finger is a representation of a natural element. When it’s brought into contact with the thumb, it’s said that the mudra balances the element and reduces imbalance in the system.
The mudra stimulates electromagnetic currents in the body that help improve overall well-being and health.
According to Deborah Nasca from the Healing Art of Mudras, mudras or specific finger positions are linked with acupressure, acupuncture, massage therapy, and hand and foot reflexology.
These therapies encourage the release of endorphins and dopamine that contribute to healing. During the mudras, the reflex points being pressed contribute to the release of healing substances in an effort to bring about balance.
Below, learn six common mudras for healing common health issues.
Six Common Mudras for Common Health Problems
- Gyan mudra
This common mudra is believed to help elevate focus, memory, and knowledge.
You can do it whether you’re sitting down, lying, or standing.
Keep the back straight and touch the tip of the thumb to the tip of the index finger. Keep the other fingers slightly stretched but relaxed.
Focus on your breathing while maintaining this mudra.
- Prana mudra
This mudra is about the life force. It’s believed to give a boost in energy and strengthen immunity.
It’s praised for healthy eyes and the reduction of insomnia and tiredness.
To do it, touch the tip of the thumb with the tip of the ring finger and the little finger. Stretch out the other two fingers lightly.
- Prithvi mudra
This is a mudra that connects you with the earth.
It contributes to a balance in life through a stronger body, less tiredness, and more grounding.
This mudra helps keep irrational thoughts at bay. To do the mudra, touch the tip of the thumb with the tip of the ring finger. Extend the other fingers.
- Vayu mudra
This mudra is said to balance the air inside our body.
It’s done in an effort to decrease pain and deepen breathing. It can be of aid for painful joints and may be of aid for people with arthritis.
To do it, roll the index finger towards the thumb and let the tip touch the thumb’s mound. Keep the other three fingers stretched out.
- Surya mudra
Also known as Agni mudra, this position is helpful for the regulation of body temperature. It also contributes to a stronger metabolism, better weight loss, reduced obesity, stronger eyesight, reduced constipation, indigestion, etc.
To make this mudra, fold the ring finger so that its tip touches the thumb’s base. Apply slight pressure with the thumb onto the second digit of your ring finger. Keep the other fingers stretched out.
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