Simply put, a mudra (pronounced “moodruh”) is a seal of energy. Mudras are primarily executed using the hands, but there are also mudras that involve the whole body. Call mudras “Divine Finger Play.”

There are many mudras and each one has a specific purpose. There are mudras for energy, concentration, memory, anxiety and centering. There are mudras for conditions such as asthma, headaches, heart problems, back and joint issues, hearing, and blood pressure.

Myriad combinations wherein the thumbs touch the fingers and the fingers touch each other express a dynamism that has the capacity to elicit specific physical, mental, emotional and spiritual responses. Depending upon the particular combination of where and how the fingers touch, a mudra will stimulate certain meridians that in turn will effect an earth, water, fire, air, or ether (space) element within the body. These elements naturally exist within the material body as qualities of energy. There are also astrological correlations of the fingers.

Success in practicing a mudra depends entirely on the individual. It is important that mudras be held with concentration and determination. Further, they should be practiced consistently. One can maintain a mudra while walking or performing tasks that do not require use of the hands, i.e., reading, watching television, listening to the radio, etc. However, for maximum benefit it is best to sit in stillness and to concentrate on the breath and the effect one desires to derive from the mudra.

Mudras can release tension and redirect energy. They can facilitate moving the mind into a more positive state, thereby optimizing well being. Mudras can actually strengthen the hands and individual fingers, even changing character traits in the process.

Mudra