The Power of Mudras
Photography by Courtney Hergesheimer Figueroa featuring Padma mudrā
To unlock the meaning of a “mudrā,'“ one must first know and honor the lineage from which it came. Meanings can change over time, much like many symbols in this world. In Hinduism and Buddhism traditions, a mudrā is a symbolic emblem generally utilizing expressions of the hands to define a God or Goddess’s character, a dancer’s mood, or the intention of a figure depicted in an art piece. The word mudrā means a gesture or seal in Sanskrit. This visual language can also include the fingers, wrists, elbows, and shoulders.
The hands joining together in prayer is a recognizable universal mudrā. Though an ancient expression, it is a modern mark most of us still relate to. How does it feel when you put your palms together at your heart? Can you discern a sensation in your body? This gesture is named Añjali Mudrā and it is often employed at the beginning and end of yoga classes as a greeting from the heart. When I practice Añjali Mudrā, my hands unite and my thumbs press into the center of my chest; I feel a deep reverence for the present moment. I hold myself and the people I love in the space in my ribcage. My whole torso overflows with a warm sensation lighting up the front and back of my heart.
There are hundreds of mudras and the variety will differ from region to region. The first recorded use of mudras were in the Vedic period as a tool for improving concentration during Vedic chanting. Mudras also play an important role in yoga, meditation, and visualization practices. I incorporate mudras in every yoga class that I teach. There is something potent about consciously sealing an intention in the outer layer of the body.
My teacher, Erin Shipley, taught me the importance of mudras and she is one of the most influential practitioners I’ve worked with. We practiced Ganesha mudrā which is an acknowledgment of a sacred connection to the Hindu god Ganesh invoking strength to overcome obstacles. To practice this mudrā, bend your arms and turn the right palm towards your chest with the left palm facing away. Interlock the hands until they grip and create the action of pulling them apart to expand through the lungs. Feel wide. Drop into the knowing that even if you have created your own obstacles, you have the wisdom to destroy them.
Padma mudrā is featured in the photo above and represents the sacred blossoming lotus. It is a symbol of the Divine within. The edges of my thumbs and pinky fingers come together and all my other fingers flare open. I feel as if I am holding life force energy. An infinite amount of lotus petals swirl in my hands and I can install any intention I have in that moment. A simple arrangement of the hands can effectively change your energy in an instant. You will have your own experience of course, but when you are open and receptive to the power of a mudrā, you might feel a shift.
No fear. Abhayamudrā is practiced with the right palm upright and facing outward. This mudrā is depicted in many Hindu and Buddhist statues and artwork. There is vulnerability in showing your empty palm. You have nothing to hide and the world can see that you approach with good intentions. You have fearlessness.
I invite you to include a mudrā and note what happens. What comes up? What do you notice? If the answer is nothing, that’s perfectly fine. The power will always be here for you to access when it’s time.
