Yoga Mudras show that our hands are integral to any exercise routine. Most of us neglect our hands when we work out. But no yoga or exercise routine is complete without them. Yoga mudras help us to build healthy minds and bodies.
So, what are they exactly? And how can they help us?
What Are Yoga Mudras?
Mudra is an ancient Sanskrit word that means ‘hand.’ Yoga Mudras, therefore, are hand or body positions. They are straightforward and practical forms of meditations that boost overall well-being. They activate organs and glands in the body.
Practitioners of Ayurveda state that our fingers are electrical circuits powered by the five elements. Mudras enhance the flow of energy between them. Each finger links with an element (earth, fire, the wind, water, and air). It also connects with an emotion and a part of the body.
- First of all, the thumb controls the fire element and the stomach. It manages your anxieties.
- The index finger joins with the air element. It manages depression. This finger also controls the respiratory system. Consequently, the index finger helps you manage breathing difficulties.
- The ring finger links with the Earth element. It also manages diseases of the liver, central nervous system, and the gallbladder. The ring finger regulates your anger level.
- The middle finger links with the circulatory system and prevents heart diseases. It also controls impatience.
- The little finger connects with water and manages fear. You also use it to manage anxiety.
Squeeze the finger that links with the emotion you think needs managing. Do the same to deal with illnesses.
Benefits of Yoga Mudras
Yoga mudras are not only exercises but also spiritual practices. They aren’t just body stretches; they have meditative value. Mudras are gestures adopted during prayer. They have the crucial function of directing energy into your body. Mudras stimulate different areas of the brain.
A study published in the International Journal of Preventive Medicine shows that mudras have the effect of putting people in a calm mental state.
10 Yoga Madras That Will Benefit Your Health
So, what are the yoga mudras you can try at home, and what can they do for you? Here are ten beneficial finger exercises that you should try out.
1. Vaayu Mudra
First of all is Vaaya Mudra. To do one, put the tip of your index finger at the base of your thumb. Then, press it lightly. This mudra decreases pressure within the body. It reduces anxiety and regulates your hormones. It is ideal for hyperactive and impulsive people.
2. Akash Mudra
The Akash mudra is another finger exercise that decreases anxiety. To do it, touch the tip of your middle finger with your thumb. This mudra increases the space in your body. It gets rid of negative thoughts and detoxifies you. If you suffer from digestive issues or congestion, this mudra is the one for you.
3. Shunya Mudra
Then, there is the Shunya mudra. To do it, but the tip of your middle finger at the base of your thumb. Press it lightly. This mudra relieves pain, especially in the ears. It eliminates problems like tinnitus and nausea. This finger exercise is numbness as well.
4. Gyan mudra
Do you want to gain wisdom? Use the Gyan mudra. Doing it is simple. All you have to do is touch the tip of your index finger with your thumb. The Gyan mudra increases your mental alertness. It also prevents drowsiness.
5. Prithvi mudra
Another finger exercise that will benefit you is the Prithvi mudra. It’s a simple drill that involves touching the tips of your ring fingers with your thumbs. This routine balances your Earth and fire elements. In so doing, it causes new tissue to develop. Consequently, your strength, endurance, and vitality increase.
6. Surya mudra
Are you struggling with weight issues? The Surya mudra is the one you need. To do this, but the base of your ring finger at the bottom of your thumb. Press it gently. The Surya mudra also balances your Earth and fire elements. It regulates your body temperature and increases thyroid activity. This exercise is ideal for those who wish to lose weight. It also decreases vision problems.
7. Varun mudra
The Varun mudra is perfect for those who have dry skin. Just touch the tips of your little finger with those of your thumbs. This mudra triggers the water element in the body. Therefore, it eases painful joints and is ideal for people with arthritis.
8. Jal Shaamak Mudra
The Jal Shaamak mudra helps stability, to do it, put the tip of your little finger at the base of your thumb. Because this decreases the water element, it stops excessive salivation. It also helps with water retention.
9. Pran mudra
The Pran Mudra improves your immunity. It raises your energy and sharpens your vision. To do it touch the tips of your ring and little fingers to your thumbs.
10. Apaan Mudra
Finally, we have the Apaan mudra. It cleanses the fluids from your body and flushes out toxins. It relieves digestive problems and urinary tract infections.
Watch the video to learn more about Yoga mudras:
In all, Yoga Mudras are simple, on-the-go exercises that promote health and well-being. Give them a try next time you struggle with any of the above-described health problems.