What is Vishnu Mudra and Why is it Named So?
Vishnu Mudra is named after Lord Vishnu, the preserver in the Hindu Trimurti (Brahma - Creator, Shankar/Shiva - Destroyer, Vishnu - Preserver). This yogic hand gesture is also known as a universal balancing mudra because it helps harmonize the body’s energy channels and promote mental equilibrium.
How to Perform Vishnu Mudra
- Sit comfortably on the floor, mat, or chair in a meditation pose such as Padmasana (Lotus Pose) or Sukhasana (Easy Pose).
- Take a few deep breaths to relax, normalizing your breathing pattern.
- Place both hands on the knees with palms facing upward.
- On the right hand, curl the index and middle fingers to touch the palm at the base of the thumb. Keep the ring and little fingers extended. The left hand remains relaxed on the left knee. This hand formation is also called Nasika or Nasagra Mudra.
- This mudra is commonly used during pranayama techniques like Anulom Vilom, Nadi Shodhana, Chandra Bhedana, and Surya Bhedana.
- In Nadi Shodhana, start by pressing the right nostril with the thumb and inhale deeply through the left nostril. Hold your breath briefly, then release the right nostril.
- Press the ring and little fingers on the left nostril and exhale through the right nostril.
- Hold briefly, then inhale through the right nostril; repeat the cycle.
- Repeat the practice 10-15 times, following the order: inhale left - exhale right, inhale right - exhale left.
- Close your eyes, focus on your breath, and feel the energy and vibrations moving through your body.
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