Using Hand Mudras for More Energy

When you're feeling a little sluggish or unable to get moving, especially during a cool, damp and rainy spring, there are many practices you can do to stimulate and support your body and mind. Hand mudras work in very subtle but powerful ways by directing energy flow to different parts of the body. Apan mudra is also called energy mudra because it helps us to feel more energized by stimulating the liver and gallbladder and supporting the removal of toxins from the body. In Sanskrit, apana refers to downward moving force governing the pelvic region of the body.

Instructions:

With both hands, connect the tip of the thumb with the middle and ring fingers. Keep the other fingers relaxed and extended. If practicing seated meditation, you may rest the back of both hands on your thighs keeping the hands relaxed. If you are using the mudra while walking or standing, you may hold the hands comfortably by your side. You can hold the mudra anywhere from 5-45 minutes a day. It can be used as an additional practice during a cleanse or anytime to aid digestion. Best practiced consistently over time, mudras are a simple way to enhance your yoga and meditation practice.

Benefits:

In addition to stimulating the energy of the liver and gallbladder, apan mudra can have a balancing effect on the mind by cultivating patience and confidence. It detoxifies the body, aids with digestion, improves the appearance of the skin, and increases overall energy.

I love using Apan Mudra when I meditate in the springtime. You can experiment with it or observe where your hands naturally want to rest while sitting in meditation.

xo Kika