Mudras – An Introduction
A mudra – meaning ‘seal’ or ‘mark’, is a symbolic or ritual hand gesture used in Hinduism, Jainism, Taoism and by Buddhists during ceremonies. It is also used in yoga, meditation and many Indian dances. Most mudras are performed using the hands and fingers, but others involve the entire body. Mudras have a range of meanings and are used to activate and create prana (a universal energy which flows in currents within and around the body).
12th-century Japanese scroll showing different mudra gestures
Many of the Buddhists’ mudras have developed over time and are now used outside of South Asia. In Hatha Yoga, a practice that focuses on posture and breathing, mudras are used in conjunction with Pranayama, another form of yoga that focuses on breathing exercises.
Our fingers continuously emit various vital energy, electric waves and aura, like the universe, our body represents all five basic elements through our fingers. The thumb represents fire, the index represents air, the middle represents space, the ring represents earth and the little finger represents water. Yogis believe that when you form a mudra pose with your fingers that they start electromagnetic currents in the body and stimulate our conscious centre.
Table showing Chakras with related Mudras for Balance
