What are mudras & how can they support our practice? Based on the roots of Ayurveda (a natural system of medicine traditionally practiced in India), diseases can be present in the body due to the imbalances of the 5 elements air, fire, water, earth and ether. Our fingers has meridians that supports us in connecting to the elements and the use of mudras are said to facilitate healing while reharmonizing the flow of energy in the body.
Roots of Chin Mudra
Chin translates as consciousness and Gyan means wisdom or knowledge. This mudra is thus known as the gesture of consciousness. It is said to support us with a deeper connection to wisdom and universal consciousness.
How does this mudra take us closer to consciousness?
The tip of the index finger is said to represent self-Consciousness while the thumb represents Universal Consciousness. When we connect both fingers together, we move from a limited state of perspective to unlimited consciousness. How does it feel like? By taking this mudra, you may feel a subtle shift in your meditation. You may start to find that you are able to find a better focus, the mind starts to clear out and it creates a deep peaceful sensation at the very core of your being (at least this is how I feel when I take the Chin Mudra). This gesture allows you to take a deeper dive within and fully connect to the divine in you. How to take this mudra? To take this mudra, find yourself in a comfortable seating position, spine is upright, placing hands on knees and palms facing upwards. Start by taking deep breaths and allow yourself to arrive on your mat. Once ready, have the eyes closed and take the mudra on both hands. You want to be completely relaxed, keep your attention on the fingers and allow thoughts to arrive in the mind. You may start to experience sparks of energy/currents between the tip of the index finger and thumb. What if I don't feel anything? Especially if you're new to yoga and spirituality, perhaps you may not feel the connection too strongly just yet. It can be a really subtle shift. Or you might feel like you don't know what you're doing and/or feel nothing. Ps, do know that it is completely alright to feel so and know that you are not alone. In these spaces, I always say to accept whatever that comes in the moment and allow that to still be a part of your experience. If you struggle to find connection, make sure to take this mudra on a day that you feel you can find more quiet space to be. When you are ready, close the eyes, take long, deep breaths and connect to the mudra only once you feel you have arrived on the mat. Let the sensation come to you, I trust that the connection will arrive in divine timing ✨
What are the benefits of taking Chin Mudra? Here are some of the ways this gesture further support your practice:
Improves your concentration in meditation By bringing your attention to the fingers, this allows you to find some direction in your meditation practice.
Calms the mind The mind start to quiet down and you get to relax.
Relieves stress and tension of the mind and body Once the mind relaxes, you get to let go and find center in the present moment. This allows you to connect even more to yourself. This also supports your emotional health and improves mood swings.
Helps with insomnia With a relaxed state of mind, you get to now find ways to be more at rest.
Increases energy and stamina Once finding rest, you may find a better connection to energy and stamina through the day.
Roots Of Yoga 101 Series
This post is part of a weekly short post series dedicated to understanding the roots & intention behind our yoga practice.
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