In Hinduism

Yoga (school of philosophy)

Source: Typepad: Mudras for Pranayama

Prana Vayu Mudras (vital air gestures) In the science of Ayurveda the qualities of the “five elements” or pancha bhutas of earth, water, fire, air and ether are connected to and represented by prana vayus. These energies are symbolized by the five fingers of the hand; the thumb represents fire, the index finger is air, the middle finger is ether and the ring finger is earth while the little finger is water.

The following five mudras are thought to directly influence the “five vital airs” or prana vayus in the physical body. With each mudra, the corresponding vayu is believed to be stimulated and bring a unifying effect to the various pranas.

1. Prana Mudra- Tips of middle and ring finger touch the tip of the thumb.
2. Apana Mudra-Tips of the index and middle finger touch the tip of the thumb.
3. Samana Mudra- Tips of the ring and little finger touch the tip of the thumb.
4. Udana Mudra-Tips of the index, middle, ring and little finger touch the tip of the thumb.
5. Vyana Mudra-Tips of index, middle, ring and little finger touch the tip of the thumb. (same as Udana)

Any of these mudras can be done during meditation with the mind fixed on the particular area of the body were the corresponding vayu is meant to reside. Bringing our conscious awareness to specific areas of the body helps direct the prana.

context information

Yoga is originally considered a branch of Hindu philosophy (astika), but both ancient and modern Yoga combine the physical, mental and spiritual. Yoga teaches various physical techniques also known as āsanas (postures), used for various purposes (eg., meditation, contemplation, relaxation).

See also (Relevant definitions)

Partial matches: Mudra, Prana, Vayu.

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