Mudras are patterns of finger, hand and wrist positions that have been used in India since ancient times to restore physical and mental balance. Each of these sacred gestures is a small universe, a representation of the outside world and the nature of reality. There are many mudras, but Hinduism considers that there are 24 main ones, which are sometimes performed together with asanas or yoga postures. The Buddhist tradition has also taken up the mudras to restore balance to the flow of vital energy in the body and mind. These are two mudras that can lead you to find calm within yourself:
1. Kalleshwar mudra
This mudra helps to calm the mind and emotions, which is why it also has a positive effect on digestion. In addition, it increases concentration and improves mood. This mudra can be performed for as long as desired.
-Together the tips of your middle fingers.
-Together the tips of your thumbs.
-Keep your middle fingers and thumbs straight.
-Bend the rest of the fingers and let them touch at the points of the joints.
2. Dhyanamudra
Also known as «meditation mudra» it can be practiced for 15 to 20 minutes, while sitting in a meditative position. Performing this practice in the morning enhances its effects. Doing this mudra helps improve concentration, which is why it is very helpful for students. It also frees you from stress and tension.
-Sit comfortably in a meditative position. It can be seated in the lotus, half lotus, sukhasana or on a chair position (If you want to know the details of the chair position, you can consult them here).
-Keep your neck and back straight.
-Focus on your breathing.
-Place the back of your left hand on the palm of your right hand.
-Put your thumbs together.
It is true that when we experience anxiety we feel totally overwhelmed by our thoughts and emotions. However, one day at a time we can gently remind ourselves of the words of the Buddha:
Your worst enemy can’t hurt you as much as your own thoughts.
Meditating when the mudras are performed is an excellent first step to recognize those thoughts and begin to train ourselves as masters of our mind. It’s an arduous process, but the rewards are sweet. In this sense, what we have prepared on how to meditate to reduce anxiety can help you on your way; you can read it here.
With information from Mudras: 25 Ultimate Techniques of Healing
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