THE PERFECT TIME TO JOIN
50% OFF MEMBERSHIP

We use cookies to provide and improve our services. By using our site, you consent to cookies.

Cookie Image

Common Mudras, Their Meaning, and How to Practice Them

You may have seen a picture of a yogi seated in meditation or in a yoga pose with their hands held a certain way. Although this does look pretty, it actually has its purpose. The specific hand gesture is called a mudra, and using mudras is part of our yoga practice.
 
A mudra is performed to direct the flow of energy through the body for different purposes like healing the body or calming the mind. The entire body can be used as a mudra, but the most common form is the hand, or Hasta (hand) Mudra.
 
It is said that our hands hold each of the basic elements: fire (thumb), air (index finger), space (middle finger), earth (ring finger) and water (pinky finger). When we use these elements within our bodies, we are able to direct the flow of energy to the brain and even stimulate different emotions, spiritual connections or reactions from the body.
 
With this movement of energy within the body, mudras can be used for healing as well. According to Ayurveda, if some of these basic elements are out of balance, the body can be too. And if the body has too much or too little of an element, disease can form.
 
Many of the elements do not interact well with each other. For instance, fire and water can cause an imbalance . . . too much fire in the body can lead to inflammation and too much water can douse the fire and lead to indigestion. Hasta mudras can be used to bring the balance back to the body by redirecting the elemental energy.
 
To get the most out of your mudras, incorporate them with a comfortable seated yoga pose and breath work. And just like any other part of your yoga journey, this is a practice as well. Let’s try some common mudras together!
 

Here are 5 common mudras, their meaning, and how to practice them:

 

1. Gyan Mudra

Gyan Mudra provides the yogi with a great sense of calmness and openness in meditation. This mudra boosts the air element and therefore stimulates the brain and is associated with knowledge. Use this mudra to boost your concentration.
 
gyan-mudra
 
Try it!

  • Bring the thumb and index finger to meet (pressure is light)
  • Keep the middle, ring and pinky finger straight and connected but relaxed
  • Palms can be up for receiving or down for grounding (which would make it the Chin Mudra, if palms face down)
  • Practice with both hands
  • Hands can placed on your knees or lap in meditation

 
 

2. Anjali Mudra (Prayer Hands)

In Sanskrit, Anjali is translated to “offering” and the Anjali Mudra is usually performed at the heart center. This mudra connects the right and left hemispheres of the brain and unites the body as a whole. This mudra is also associated with the greeting “Namaste.” It shows great respect and connection. Use this mudra to connect to your spirituality.
 
anjali-mudra
 
Try it!

  • Bring both palms together, fingers up
  • Hands are pressed firmly and evenly
  • Keep a small opening in between the palms
  • Hands usually remain in front of the heart center

 
 

3. Apana Mudra

The Apana Mudra is used to detox the body by accelerating elimination. It is energetically connected to the pelvis and abdomen and is a great mudra to help cleanse the body. The best time to practice this mudra is first thing in the morning. A consistent practice may even leave us with healthier skin. Use this mudra to aid in digestion, provide more energy and confidence.
 
apana-mudra
 
Try it!

  • Bring the tips of the middle finger and ring finger to meet the tip of the thumb on the same hand (practice this mudra with both hands)
  • Allow the index finger and pinky finger to remain extended
  • Light but firm pressure at the fingertips
  • Practice with both hands
  • Hands can be placed in your lap or on your knees when seated

 
 

4. Dhyana Mudra

The Dhyana Mudra is known as a great mudra to use during meditation. It promotes concentration, reflection and calm energy. This mudra can be found on many of the Buddha statues in your home or yoga studio, and although this is often practiced in Buddhist meditation, this mudra was used long before by Hindu yogis.
 
The Dhyana Mudra represents a complete balance and sense of calmness. The right palm symbolizes awareness, while the left palm symbolizes the illusion of existence. Use this mudra during meditation to promote concentration and healing.
 
dhyana-mudra

Try it!

  • Place your hands in your lap, palms facing up
  • Left hand on the bottom
  • Tips of the thumbs meet and create a bowl shape

 
 

5. Kali Mudra

The Goddess known as Kali represents destruction, transformation and death. She destroys what is dark and makes way for the light. Kali is fierce, strong and powerful, and to embody her in this mudra is a great way to feel empowered during your yoga practice. To release tension, rid yourself of negativity and feel powerful, practice the Kali Mudra in both your meditation and yoga practice.
 
kali-mudra
 
Try it!

  • Interlace your middle, ring and pinky fingers
  • The index fingers are together, pointing up
  • Cross your left thumb over your right thumb

 
Mudras are a wonderful addition to your meditation and yoga practice. When we tap into our energies and basic elements, we are able to find a deeper connection to ourselves. Mudras can be practiced at home, the office or school. They are accessible any time and can heal, calm and keep the body and mind healthy.
 
Do you use mudras in your yoga or meditation practice? How have they helped you? Do you have any other mudras to recommend, or have a personal favorite you’d like to share? Please leave your thoughts in the comments below.
 

This article has been read 70K+ times. Hot damn!

Comments

wonderful comments!

Learn the Meaning Behind 5 Common Yoga Symbols
Symbols add meaning to our lives. Learn about five common yoga symbols here and why yoga practitioners use these ancient symbols.
Read »

Michelle Stanger

Michelle Stanger is a 200-RYT yoga instructor with years of teaching experience. She specializes in Power Vinyasa, Buti Yoga and handstands and is best known as a teacher for her fun, light-hearted attitude and classes that are as challenging as they are welcoming.

MichelleStanger.com

This Month's Letter
From the Editor

Monthly motivation and food for
thought from our founder.

READ THE LETTER
Mind, body & life wellness in your inbox.
iPhone

Get the
YA Classes App

No WiFi? No Problem! Download
classes and take them without an
internet connection.

2k+
Download YA Classes app on the Apple App Store
Download YA Classes app on the Google Play Store

Also available in Apple TV , Mac and Amazon apps.

Send this to a friend
Follow us on Close

Create Your FREE Account

Woohoo! You’re about to unlock unlimited articles, exclusive
community content, and select on-demand yoga and fitness classes.

OR USE THE FORM BELOW

Lost password?