Mudras are different hand positions that can be used during meditation. Mudra means 'seal' in Sanskrit. So you are essentially creating a seal while meditating.
But are hand symbols really that powerful? Well, consider this; we often use hand signals in our daily life. We give people the "thumbs up" sign. We give people the "middle finger" when we're angry. We even may put our palm up to say "speak to the hand!" So, yeah, hand symbols have meaning!
When we use mudras in meditation we allow the energy to be a more complete circuit. We are able to basically speak with our hands that which we are meditating on or manifesting. Mudras have been used for thousands of years for healing to help spiritual people who practice certain Indian traditions. They represent an outward presentation of your inward desires and intentions while meditating.
There are MANY mudras to use; some being super simple and probably well known to many people; and others which are far more complex. We'll go through some of the more simple, yet powerful, healing mudras in this post. Hopefully, that will peak your interest and encourage you to research mudras that may be specific for your issue!
The laughter mudra is used for prosperity and wisdom. This can bring a feeling of completion and joy. This is also called the Hansi Mudra.
The Joint Mudra can be used to alleviate some joint pain as its name suggests. This can help with arthritic pains to knees, shoulders, fingers and more. It can decrease stiffness and allow for ease of movement. "To do Joint mudra you need to connect thumb and ring finger of your right hand (form Prithvi mudra); and thumb and middle finger of your left hand (form Akash mudra)." joint mudra
The Rudra Mudra is good for when you're feeling worn out, exhausted, weak and fatigued. This mudra is very powerful and named after Shiva, the Hindu God. It can help with lowering blood pressure and even over-eating. When you're stressed, this is the go-to mudra!
The Kalesvara Mudra is the one to use to help in your recovery process from addictions. This mudra is one that encourages change. It can help with most addictions and negative habits. This one is easy to remember because it looks like a heart. Reminding us to love ourselves in spite of our addictions and bad habits.
Surya Mudra is one that is used for weight loss. It increases the fire element in the body and allows for increased metabolism.
Mudras should be done using both hands. They should also be done on a regular basis. Sometimes several times each day for short periods of time each session. Starting with twice a day for 10-15 minutes should allow you to begin to notice the effects as you work up to longer sessions.
Have you incorporated mudras into your meditation or yoga practices? Have you noticed results? What are some other mudras that you find useful? Please share in the comments below! I'd love to hear your thoughts!
I have found that mudras have helped me a lot when needing to ease some emotional pain or anger. I have not used yet two of the ones you mention here though and they will be useful!
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