Mudra
Also known as: Hand Seal, Hasta Mudra
Sanskrit: mudra, meaning seal, gesture, or mark.
A mudra is a symbolic hand or body gesture used in yoga, meditation, and classical Indian dance to direct energy, seal a physical or energetic state, or express a specific meaning. In yogic practice, mudras are often combined with pranayama and meditation to influence the flow of prana, the body's vital energy.
Classical hatha yoga texts describe dozens of mudras, ranging from simple finger positions like Gyan Mudra, used in meditation, to more complex whole-body mudras such as Khechari or Vajroli that are considered advanced practices requiring direct teacher guidance. Their traditional purpose is to direct or contain prana within the body, distinguishing them from bandhas, which use muscular locks for a similar aim.
Hasta mudras, or hand gestures, are the most widely recognized form, seen throughout classical Indian dance and iconography, such as Gyan Mudra, thumb and index finger touching, associated with knowledge and concentration, but the term also covers whole-body positions and even facial or eye positions in some tantric systems. Unlike a bandha, which involves a physical muscular lock, most mudras are described as directing subtle energy through position and intention rather than force, which is part of why they are usually combined with pranayama and meditation rather than practiced as physical exercise on their own.
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Related Terms
Bandha
A bandha is a muscular lock or contraction used in yoga and pranayama to direct the flow of prana, stabilize the body during a pose, or intensify a breathing practice. The three most commonly taught are Mula Bandha at the pelvic floor, Uddiyana Bandha at the abdomen, and Jalandhara Bandha at the throat.
Kriya
Kriya refers to a specific, structured technique or sequence of practices, such as breathing patterns, movements, chanting, or cleansing exercises, designed to produce a defined effect on the body, mind, or subtle energy. It ranges from simple cleansing exercises to complex Kundalini Yoga sequences taught by a teacher.