What are Mudras?

Article written by: Jemma Black - Hatha Yoga Teacher

What are Mudras? How do they work? Is it still Yoga?

Mudra comes from the Sanskrit word meaning seal, or gesture and is a series of hand positions that allow us to shift energy, prana (our life force energy,) breath and can help to relieve and release stuck thought patterns and inner dialogue.

So how do these little hand gestures work? We actually use them all the time. Think about when you see someone across the street, maybe they’re too far away to speak to, so we wave, they wave back and it makes you smile. You just exchanged energy. The same for if someone is backing into a tight parking space, you put your hand up for them to stop! They brake, you’ve prevented an accident, everyone is happy! Mudras are slightly different in as much as, rather than communicating with another person, you’re communicating with yourself. You’re communicating with your body, energy and breath. Every part of your hand is connected to the brain and nervous system. When we form a mudra, neurological and energetic responses are triggered. This influences the flow of prana (life force energy) which creates specific physiological and psychological effects.

There are many aspects to Yoga and I’ve mentioned before in these articles that the physical movement is just one small part of a much bigger practise. So yes, mudras are all part of Yoga.

Try a simple experiment now. Find a comfortable position to sit in. Take a moment to settle and without changing your breathing pattern, just notice where in the body you are breathing. Now lightly join your index fingertips to your thumb tips, leave your other three fingers extended. Relax your hands into you lap and notice how your breath moves down to your lower abdomen, your breath has moved down into the base of your lungs. It’s a very simple technique to create a feeling of peace and calm, try it the next time you feel stressed.

If you would like more information on what Yoga has to offer you, go to my website www.theyogahutfife.co.uk and either get in touch or book a class. I look forward to meeting you soon.