Mudras

One simple way to improve the flow of your energy is mudra practice. While each individual’s energy is different, we are each made up of the same five basic elements. These five elements are Fire, Air, Earth, Water, and Space/Ether. We can balance these elements with mudras.

What are Mudras?

Following the Meridian System, which can be found in Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine, we can identify the elemental rulers of each finger and use them consciously in our mudra practice. Mudra in Sanskrit means Mind Tool, which is exactly what the Hasta Mudras (Hand Mudras) achieve. To practice Hand Mudras, we connect our fingers together to balance our energy in a particular way.

It also helps to keep track of the current Astrological Transits and to be mindful of your own energy.

Each Element Rules A Finger

The first finger, the thumb, is ruled by the Fire element. By using the thumb in mudras, we activate Fire energy. We can also enhance the effects of the other elements we are connecting to the thumb. Fire energy rules our passion, drive, spirituality, and impulsivity. 

The pointer finger connects us to the Air element. When we use the second finger, we activate the Air energy within us. This element rules our communication, thoughts, and intellect. Balancing the Air element helps us connect with others and detach from overthinking.

The third finger, the middle finger, is ruled by the Space/Ether element. Space holds all other elements, required for any one of them to exist comfortably. By using the middle finger in our mudras, we connect to Ether and Source energy. It also brings physical space to areas that need it within the mind and body.

The ring finger connects us to the Earth element. By using the fourth finger in mudras, we ground whatever energy we connect to it. The Earth element brings stability and security along with groundedness and practicality. The ring finger helps us to ground manifestations in the 3D and also connects us with Mother Earth.

Finally, the pinky finger is ruled by the Water element. By using the pinky in mudras, we connect to the element of flow, emotion, and intuition. This finger can increase purification and beautification, inside and out. Balancing the Water element strengthens our intuition, balances our emotions, and opens both the creative center and heart space. 

How to Practice Mudras

To practice using the elements in mudras, we can connect the thumb (Fire) with whichever finger we wish to focus on. This balances our Fire energy and also brings circular flow to the other element. For example, if the Air element needed to come into balance, one could connect the thumb and pointer fingertips. This common mudra is known as Jnana Mudra and is often used in meditation to clear the mind.

We can connect more than two fingers together in mudras, such as Prana Mudra which increases our Life Force Energy. To practice Prana Mudra, connect the tips of the thumb (Fire), ring finger (Earth), and pinky (Water). This mudra clears all Nadis, Meridians, and Chakras and is also highly energizing. 

Types of Mudras

There are two ways to practice mudras like these. By connecting the fingertips, we create an open circle, bringing immediate and less permanent change to our energy flow. However, by creating a closed circle we create a slower and more permanent change to our energy. An example of a closed mudra is Surya Mudra. To practice this, one would touch the fingertip of the thumb (Fire) to the fingernail of the ring finger (Earth). This mudra creates a closed circle and increases vitality, health, and metabolic health. 

We can also connect the fingertips of both hands together to bring total balance, or connect two of the same element fingers together to channel that energy intently.

When practicing these Hasta Mudras, please first make an assessment of your current energy or hire a professional to do so. When balancing your energy, certain elements may be over or under-active. For example, if a Fire-native person increased their Fire energy on a regular day, they could end up with heartburn, anger, agitation, impulsivity, etc. Too much or too little of any particular element can be damaging in the long term, so it is always advised to spend time sitting with oneself scanning the body before beginning mudra practice. 

Mudras can be extra beneficial during sunrise and sunset. They also have a stronger effect when falling asleep, or after asana practice, qigong, or reiki. 

Practice Gratitude

No matter which Mudras we practice, the most important thing to remember is gratitude. Thank yourself for spending a little extra time in mindfulness, and thank yourself for showing up. 

Be grateful for your health, your wealth, and all good things that have and will come your way. 

Good luck with your mudra practice, and Namaste!