Yoga Mudra - The Art of the Use of Hands

There are numerous form of yoga therapy availablewhich in turn is therapeutically beneficial for relieving
today, some of which focus on the therapeuticcold and flu symptoms from within the body, without
effects over the mind, others which center on thethe use of external medication.
physical fitness aspects. Yet another form, YogaMukula Mudra: When performed it resembles a closed
Mudra, is the art of the proper use of hands in orderbud of lotus. Keeping the elbows next to the ribcage,
to channel the energy properly through the body.the forearms are placed parallel to the ground in
Normally Mudra is used together with asanas (poses)front of the abdomen. The hands are held palms up
and pranayama (breathing techniques) from variouswith the fingers joined together, but pointing up. This
forms of yoga to create a complete session which isMudra is a great way to channel energy towards
beneficial to the mind, body and spirit.areas of the body where healing is required.
There are several types of mudras, all practiced withPrana Mudra: The ring finger and pinky finger are
varying techniques of contouring the hands in orderbrought together with the thumb to attain this
to gain their maximum benefits. The most commonlyMudra, which is a complicated cycle practiced with a
practiced mudras include:series of breathing techniques and meditation. This
Apaan Mudra: The tip of the thumb is joined with theMudra is particularly beneficial for pumping the life
tips of the ring and middle fingers while keeping theforce into the body and also provides a special
remaining two fingers straight. Apaan is beneficial forpower to the eyes.
the body as it cleanses it by eliminating all wastePrithvi Mudra: An easier Mudra done by joining the
products produced by the body. It is particularlyring finger and the thumb together, it promotes
useful for people suffering from problems related tofeelings of happiness and assists in giving power to
urination and constipation.the entire body.
Gyaan Mudra: Also known as the Om Mudra, it isShoonya Mudra: Also known as Shuni Mudra, it is
accomplished by joining the tips of the thumb andpracticed by pressing the tip of the middle finger into
index finger to make an "O" shape. Used along withthe base of the thumb and curving the thumb over
meditation, gyaan is very useful in gaining inner peacethe finger. The remaining three fingers are kept
and tranquility. Therapeutically, it proves to be ofstraight upright. This Mudra is the key for achieving
great value for the treatment of psychologicalpatience, endurance and devotion. In addition, it also
ailment as it promotes a sense of happiness, honeshelps relieve health problems related to the ear.
the memory and develops the intellect of the yogi.Other famous mudras include Surya Mudra, Varun
Ling Mudra: A complex Mudra achieved by interlockingMudra and Vayu Mudra, all of which have various
the hands, Ling is a great way of raising body heat,benefits for the mind and body.