Even the smallest hand pose can have a profound effect on your yoga practice. Yoga has a whole science based on different hand positions called mudras. One of the most popular mudras is the Ji’an mudra, which promotes wisdom and knowledge.
Mudras are an important part of many spiritual practices, especially in Buddhism. Many historical works of art depicting Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and even saints and sages of other religions feature important mudras, or gestures, that have varying effects on health, mental state, and well-being.
Some mudras are only recommended for more experienced practitioners and meditators. Gyan mudra is one of the easiest mudras anyone can start using.
Learn everything you need to know about incorporating powerful mudras into your yoga practice and how they can benefit your life.
what is mudra
what is mudra
Mudras are not limited to hand positions. They are imprints that can be placed anywhere on your body. Beginners, however, usually start with a specific Hastur mudra, or mudra, practiced during static yoga asanas or meditation.
Mudras are places in your body where seals are formed and affect the flow of life energy or prana.
It’s a subtle science that can affect your energetic body, but it’s also good for your physical and mental health. There are hundreds of mudras with different intentions. Some even have mystical powers for those who believe in the more esoteric aspects of the sigil.
They have been used in the East for thousands of years, and many Western yoga and meditation practitioners are now learning the science of mudra and incorporating it into their practice.
While the science of mudras can be very in-depth and vary from teacher to teacher, generally accepted beliefs about mudras can help you understand how they affect your energies.
In Ayurveda, the traditional medicine of ancient India, the universe is made up of five elements: earth, air, fire, water and ether. These elements make up everything visible and invisible.
Human beings are made of combinations of these elements that make up your dosha. Your dosha or Ayurvedic constitution can affect your health and even your personality. For example, if you’re a natural leader or short-tempered, you’re probably a pita- or fire-based person.
Apart from these elements, all animate and inanimate things flow through a common life energy. This energy is called Prana.
Each hand has five fingers. Prana flowing through each finger connects you to the elements like an antenna.
- thumb fire
- index air
- Medium ether/space
- Ring – Earth
- little finger – water
In addition to the elements, your fingers can also connect you to the energies of different planets or chakras.
Hasta-Mudras have been depicted in the art and paintings of various meditators and yogis for centuries. They are also important in Indian dances where the positions of the hands and feet are specific.
According to Nubia Teixeira, a yogi and teacher of Indian classical dance, the hands are an extension of the heart. Here’s how gestures allow you to be your most authentic self.
How and When to Use Gyan Mudra
How and When to Use Gyan Mudra
Gyan mudra is one of the simplest mudras and is most popular among practitioners of yoga and Buddhist meditation.
It also goes by several other names including Jnana Mudra, Dhyan Mudra or Vayu Vardhak Mudra. Each of its names is called the mudra of wisdom, awareness and knowledge.
You can incorporate it into your regular asana practice and place your hands in this energizing block during meditation. It’s also very simple and discreet, and can be practiced with your hands in your pockets, so you can practice this mudra even if you want to access the energy of Gyan mudra while you’re on the go.
To practice Gyan mudra, simply join the tip of your thumb with the tip of your index finger. Relax all other fingers.
As you sit, place the backs of your palms on your knees. This special placement will connect you to the wisdom of heaven. However, placing the same fingers in a palm-down position creates a better grounding effect.
You can also turn your palms outward to project wisdom onto others.
It is best to start practicing mudra with a meditation practice. This allows you to be present with yourself and the subtle energies affected by the imprint.
Ideally, sit in the Gian Mudra with your eyes closed for 10 minutes a day. But even if your meditation practice is only three minutes long, you can start with it.
You can also combine any mantra with jian mudra. If you don’t have time to sit still, you can also incorporate mudras into your daily life, such as walking.
10 Benefits of Gyan Mudra
10 Benefits of Gyan Mudra
Gyan Mudra has multiple benefits for physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. Here are the top 10 benefits of Gyan Mudra.
1. Represents the connection between the finite self and the universal self
As a mudra of awareness, wisdom and knowledge. This hasta mudra reminds you of the importance of yoga which is oneness.
The connections you make with the tips of your index finger and thumb help you notice the subtle connections and relationships between them.
2. Stimulate the root chakra
The root or root chakra is the first of the seven advanced human chakras. It gives you a sense of being connected to your animal instincts and your consciously evolved human abilities.
The balance of this chakra can be improved with Gyan Mudra, giv