Meditation is all about calming and clearing the mind. Practicing medication starts with getting into a comfortable position. That includes positioning your hands. In fact, what you do with your hands during meditation can have a major impact on your practice. The same can be said for a yoga session.
Throughout the centuries, (yes, centuries!) there have been over 100 mudras formed. These are the specific hand gestures that help direct and redirect your body’s energy flow.
Here are 5 powerful mudras that you can put into practice for your next meditation session:
Gyan
The position: Touch your index finger to the tip of your thumb. In other words, make the “okay” sign.
This is probably the most commonly used mudra and it can help with concentration and bring your memory into sharper focus. If you are seeking knowledge over a particular subject, then this is the mudra to activate. When relaxed and focused on this mudra, you might experience a sensation of energy flowing in that finger circle.
Buddhi
The position: Touch your thumb to your pinky finger while extending your other three fingers out straight.
This mudra is utilized for mental clarity. Purveyors of this mudra found it to be beneficial when you want to unlock the meanings of a recent dream or listen to a message from your subconscious. This mudra can also improve your internal and external communication abilities. Again, think clarity.
Shuni
The position: Touch the tip of your middle finger to your thumb tip. The other fingers are straight and relaxed.
The shuni mudra is mean to help provide a boost for your alertness and intuition. It can also lead to purification of your emotions and thoughts. A mudra filter.
Prana
The position: Tough your ring and pinky fingers to the tip of your thumber. Your index and middle finger remain straight.
Prana is the “vital life force within all living things.” Yes, you could call is “the force.” When put into use, this mudra can activate dormant energy in your body. It helps “wake things up” and can lead you to being more in tune with your surroundings.
Dhyana
The position: Your hands are facing upwards with your right hand resting on the top of your left palm. Touch your thumb tips.
If you have a picture of stature of the Buddha, then you might see the Dhyana in action. The purpose of this mudra is to bring you into a sense of deeper concentration. It also helps promote tranquility and inner peace.
You can alternate these mudras during your meditation and see which one is the most powerful for your practice.