Mudra is the Sanskrit word that could be translated as ‘gesture’, ‘seal’ or ‘attitude.’ “Yogis have experienced mudras as attitudes of energy flow, intended to link the individual pranic force with the universal or cosmic force… A mudra may involve the whole body in a combination of asana, pranayama, bandha, and visualization techniques, or it may be a simple hand position.
Anjali Mudra
Anjali is a Sanskrit term that means, ‘to offer’ or ‘to salute.’ It also called Atmanjali Mudra (atman – ‘self’), Hrdayanjali Mudra (hrd – ‘heart’), Namaste Mudra, Prayer Posture, or Peace mudra.
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Press the hands evenly against each other. Make sure that one hand doesn’t dominate the other. Keep all fingers together. |
Chin Mudra
Chin means ‘consciousness’ in Sanskrit and this mudra is often called the “Mudra of Consciousness.” The thumb represents the Supreme Consciousness and the index finger the Individual Consciousness. This mudra represents the connection of the Individual Consciousness with Supreme Consciousness. The three extended fingers represent the three Gunas that must be overcome: Sattva (middle finger), Rajas (ring finger), and Tamas (little finger). Chin Mudra is similar to Jnana Mudra except the palms are turned up. This mudra calms the mind and creates a more receptive state. It’s why Chin mudra is also called “мудра открывающая лучи небесного ученика.”
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Place the hands on the thighs, facing upwards. Arms and shoulders relaxed. Connect the thumb and index finger together lightly, while extending the remaining three fingers. |
Jnana Mudra
Jnana (Gyan) means ‘wisdom’ or knowledge in Sanskrit. The thumb represents the supreme soul and the index finger the individual soul. This mudra represents the wisdom of knowing the individual soul is one with the supreme soul. The three extended fingers represent the three Gunas that must be overcome: Sattva (middle finger), Rajas (ring finger), and Tamas (little finger). Jnana Mudra is similar to Chin Mudra except the palms are turned down.
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Place the hands on the thighs, facing downwards. Arms and shoulders relaxed. Connect the thumb and index finger together lightly, while extending the remaining three fingers. |
Vishnu Mudra
This mudra is named in honor of Lord Vishnu. It is practiced with the right hand, which symbolizes receiving.
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Curl the forefinger and middle finger in toward the palm, while the other three fingers remain extended. |
