Mudras
Abhaya Mudra
(Fearlessness and courage)
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Fearlessness and courage, symbolizing harmony, strength, and protection. Relaxes the nervous system, reduces stress, and regulates breathing. Induces a sense of safety, reduces anxiety, and builds confidence. Often practiced with Gayatri Mantra recitation.
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Sit comfortably with a straight spine.
Raise your right hand to chest level, with the elbow bent and palm facing outward.
Keep the left hand resting on your lap or palm upward.
Breathe deeply
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15-30 minutes
Anjali Mudra
(Focuses attention to the heart)
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Centering, focuses attention to the heart, devotion (Namaste). Often accompanies meditation on the heart chakra. Represents a "divine offering" or "giving and receiving". It is often accompanied by "Namaste," indicating that the divinity in oneself honors the divinity in others.
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Sit comfortably with a straight spine or stand in mountain pose.
Gently bring your palms together at the center of your chest (heart center).
Keep your palms slightly apart, forming a small cavity (like a lotus flower).
Lightly touch your thumbs to your sternum, broaden your shoulder blades, and relax your shoulders.
(Variation) Close your eyes, bow your head slightly, or place the hands at the third eye to deepen focus.
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15-30 minutes
Apan Vayu Mudra
(Regulates heartbeat)
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Regulates heartbeat, and regular practice assists in preventing heart attacks, palpitations, tacho-cardia, or a sinking feeling of the heart. In a severe heart attack, if administered within the first two seconds, it provides instant relief. Also known as the "Mritsanjeevini Mudra", meaning "One which brings back life out of death".
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Sit comfortably in a seated meditation pose with a straight spine.
Press index finger to pad of thumb.
Tips of middle and ring fingers touch tip of thumb.
Smallest finger extends straight out.
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Up to 45 min. daily
Vayu Mudra
(Decreases body aches, helps with nervous ailments)
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Decreases body aches, stiffness, and pain. Helps with nervous ailments. Balances the air element in the body. Effective for those with Cerebral Palsy or Parkinson's.
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Sit comfortably with a straight spine.
Bend index finger and press it to pad of thumb.
Extend remaining fingers straight out, touching each other.
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45 minutes, or two 30-minute sessions