MUDRAS

Mudra literally in Sanskrut means "seal". It is a symbolic or ritual gesture practised from ancient times in Hinduism and Buddhism. Mudras involve the entire body and are performed with both hands and fingers. Mudra is considered to be the energetic "seal of authenticity" which is employed in the spiritual practice of Indian religions. Mudras involve the entire body and are performed with both hands and fingers. Reference of Mudra is found in the Eastern philosophies and it is the culture and Yogic practice. Mudra is also rightly defined as mystic hand gestures used to focus subtle energy through symbols.

The concept of Mudra depends on the ten fingers of both hands in a human body. Each finger is associated with certain energy and meaning. The correct usage of the fingers gives the Mudra the potency to heal. The fingers are said to possess the five elements of as human body- fire, air, water, earth and sky that are present in fixed proportions and even the slightest imbalance of any of these can be disastrous. However, striking the balance among these elements is not easy. Thus practise of Mudra help to harmonise the five elements in the human body.

A detailed study of the fingers and their association with the five elements reveals that the thumb represents the element earth, the stomach and worry. The index finger constitutes the element metal and influences the lungs, the large intestine as well as control the emotions such as depression, sadness and grief. The middle finger is the element fire associated with the heart, small intestine, circulatory and respiratory systems, and the emotions are impatience and hastiness. The ring finger constitutes the element wood and is connected to the liver, gall bladder, and nervous system, and corresponds to anger. The little finger corresponds to water, the kidneys, and fear.

In addition to that, the fingers are also connected to profound meaning in astrology and palmistry. The little finger is Mercury and relates to communication. This finger is associated with the second chakra. The ring finger is associated to Apollo, the Sun God and refers to relationships and is the root chakra. The middle finger is the finger related to Saturn. It refers to responsibility and is associated with the throat chakra, the gateway of purity. Index finger is constituted with Jupiter. It refers to self-worth and is associated with the heart chakra. Finally the thumb is connected to Mars. It refers to self-assertion and is associated with the fire element.

Origin of Mudra is quite ancient. According to mythology Lord Shiv is considered to have initiated the basic Mudras. The practise of Mudra is prevalent in all over the world. It is found in every form and is used in religion, dance, art, and even in Tantra. The significance of Mudra is both exoteric and esoteric. Mudra is also a useful identification of the Buddh, Bodhisattvas and deities.

Mudra Vigyan or the science of finger postures occupies a prominent position among the ancient Indian Sciences. The science of Mudra is quite interesting. In order to harmonise the undercurrents of the mind, science of Mudra is considered significant. Furthermore, Mudra Vigyan is the aspect that helps in practising meditation. Mudras have always been treated as an esoteric science. Thus it can be said that Mudra Vigyan is a distinct and independent branch of Yog. In addition to that Mudra Vigyan denotes the five fingers which are the representation of five tattvas.

The main purpose of Mudra is to uplift the human soul and promote the individual to achieve divine powers. Moreover, Mudras can keep the body perfectly fit. However, besides providing spiritual gains, the Mudras are valuable for its therapeutic use also. Constant researches have brought forth a wide range of Benefits of Mudras.

Mudras can be described as psychic, emotional, devotional and aesthetic gestures or attitudes. Varied types of Mudras are introduced for different uses. Yogi's have considered Mudras as attitudes of energy flow and linked them to individual pranic force with universal or cosmic force.

Mudras are a combination of subtle physical movements which alter mood, attitude and perception, and deepen awareness and concentration. The term Mudras of universal application is apt. Mudras especially bring about miraculous changes and improvement in our body. In addition to that Mudras generate power to provide peace and happiness. Moreover the practise of Mudra can bring remedies providing instant relief in mant illness. Mudras in therapeutic use have also gained prominence. A regular practice of Mudras can cure insomnia, arthritis and memory loss. Most importantly Mudras help in Kundalini Yog to awaken the cosmic energy.

Benefits of Mudras are many as this science of gesture is used in innumerable way. Mudra can help in balancing the flow of energy through the `nadis` that nourish our internal organs. They can also be performed to achieve specific states of consciousness. In addition to that mastering this art of gesture can help eliminate negative thoughts and aid mood elevation. Furthermore, Mudras can be used in meditation too. Mudra and Meditation can bring a change in the human mind. Mudras and colour forms a unique combination and stimulates positive energy in the body, mind and soul of a human being.