REPUBLIC OF BENIN

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UNIVERSIT OF ABOMEY-CALAVI
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TBC AFRICA USA
GENERAL PRESENTATION OF MODULE
COMPLETION
MODULE : I

TOPIC : Mudras (Hand Yoga)

Presented by
EDEA Magnificat Théodore Olamidé

Under the supervision

of
Jacques DJOSSOUDAN
Juin 2024
SUMMARY

INTRODUCTION

I. Definition and Origin of Mudras

I.1 Definition
I.2 Origin
II. Importance and Use of Mudras
II.1 Importance
II.2 Use
III. Some mudras
III.1 The basics
III.2 Anjali mudra
III.3 Padma mudra
III.4 Uttarabodhi mudra
III.5 Hakini mudra
III.6 Gyan mudra
III.7 Dhyana mudra

CONCLUSION

BIBLIOGRAPHICS REFERENCES

CONTENTS

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 OUTLINE

DEDICATION

I dedicate this work to :

 My father Thomas EDEA

 My mother Ella DEMON
 My teacher mister Wilfred Mawouna VODOUNON

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 Acknowledgement

My thanks go to :

 My God
 The coach Jacques DJOSSOUDAN, my supervisor
 The coach Marie Grâce d’Assomption TODEDJRAPOU
 The coach Innocent BLASSOU
 TBC Staff

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 INTRODUCTION

Mudras (Sanskrit for « sign » or seal or symbol) are symbolic hand positions
expressing a spiritual conception among Hindus and Buddhists. In India, they are traditionally
part of any spiritual act, especially meditation. Visualizations, affirmations and mantras
(sacred formula or invocation used in Hinduism, Buddhism etc.) usually accompany them.

In yoga, mudras are therefore the set of techniques accomplished with the hands (for
the most part) but also with the eyes or the whole body (asana) or even breathing. The Indian
rishis (sage, priest, patriarch, saint, hermit etc.) had noticed that by bending, crossing, or
making our fingers touch, we could act on our energy, our body in general and on our mind.

Our subtle body is filled with energy channels (nadis in India or meridians in China) that
manage our physiological and psychic processes. These channels accumulate mainly on the surface of
the feet and hands.

Working with our fingers allows us to harmonize our physical state, control our emotions,
increase our concentration. In short, to harmonize our being with the Universe. By working on the
nadis to control energy, the practice of mudras is thus similar to the reflexology that we know well
for the feet !

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 I. DEFINITION AND ORIGIN OF MUDRAS

I.1 Definition

The term Mudra means « seal », « symbol », but it has several meanings ! When
performed during sacred Indian dances, it represents a given mood or situation. But if we
look at the etymology of this word, we observe that it is composed of « mu » which means
happiness and « dru » which means « to highlight », it is therefore a practice which aims
to improve the overall health of man, and allows to be in a positive state of mind.

Mudras are sacred and symbolic gestures or positions of the Buddha’s hands, often
used in yoga, meditation, and other spiritual and wellness practices. They have various
functions and uses depending on the parts of our body, including the following :
Concentration and Meditation : Mudras are used to help focus the mind and facilitate
meditation. Specific hand positions can help direct energy and maintain attention, creating a
deeper state of concentration.
Energy Balancing : According to Indian tradition, the hands are the seat of many energy
points (marmas) that are related to the flow of energy in the body. Mudras are religious rituals
designed to help balance this energy by placing the hands in specific positions.
Spiritual Expression : In some religious and spiritual traditions, mudras are used as a seal to
express devotion, prayer, or gratitude to a deity. They are often incorporated into religious
rituals.
Nonverbal Communication : Mudras are sometimes used as a means of nonverbal
communication in certain religious and spiritual practices, allowing practitioners to
communicate ideas or intentions without using words.
Spiritual Awakening : Certain mudras are associated with spiritual awakening and expansion
of consciousness. They are used as seals to promote spiritual growth and self-realization.
Stress and Emotion Management : Certain mudras are used to help manage stress, anxiety and
emotions. They can be practiced to induce a state of calm and relaxation etc.

1.1

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 1.2 Origin

Mudras, also called Mudra Yoga or “finger yoga”, have their origins in Vedic
culture dating back more than 3000 years. They are gestures, attitudes or postures that
aim to “seal” the energy flow that circulates within us. Mudras are an integral part of
the practice of yoga, they are a way to reconnect with oneself, and to enter more
deeply into one’s practice. Mudras are mentioned in sacred Hindu texts (Vedas),
dating back more than 3000 years, they were originally a spiritual practice to invoke a
divinity. Although they were developed in India, mudras were gradually spread to the
Far East, Central Asia and Tibet.

Mudras have their origins in ancient spiritual and cultural traditions of India,
including yogic, tantric, and Buddhist practices. In the yogic tradition, mudras are
used as a means of channeling prana, or life force energy, through the nadis (energy
channels) of the body. In the context of Buddhism, mudras are used in meditation to
facilitate concentration, heart-opening, and spiritual awakening. Statues and paintings
of Buddha and Buddhist deities are often depicted performing symbolic mudras.
Mudras are also used in traditional martial arts and classical Indian dances by relating
the fingers to the organs of the body, to express emotions, stories, and cultural
symbols. It involves matching the hands with the two hemispheres of the brain.

Over time, the origin of mudras spread from religious rituals to practices in
various cultures and traditions around the world, becoming a universal means of
nonverbal communication and spiritual practice. They continue to be used today in
yoga practices, meditation, energy healing, and other areas to promote physical,
mental, and spiritual well-being.

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 II. IMPORTANCE AND USE OF MUDRAS

II.1 Importance of mudras

 Mudras can help focus the mind during meditation by channeling energy through the
hands.
 Mudras help to balance the energy channels in the body, the relationship with the
organs and breathing exercises thus promoting physical and emotional well-being.
 Each mudra has a symbolic meaning that can be linked to spiritual, emotional or
energetic aspects.
II.2 Use of mudras

a. Select the mudra that matches your specific goal or need. Some mudras are designed
to promote concentration, meditation, relaxation, etc.
b. Place your hands and fingers in the position of the corresponding mudra. Some
mudras also involve specific body postures.
c. Combine mudra practice with conscious breathing. Inhale and exhale slowly,
synchronizing your breathing with the mudra practice.
d. While practicing the mudra, focus on your intention, your breathing, or a specific
point on your body.
e.

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 III SOME MUDRAS
3.1 The basics
The exact number of mudras can be difficult to determine precisely, as there are many
regional, cultural, and traditional variations. There is no fixed or universally accepted figure
for the total number of mudras.
The most widespread mudras are the Hasta Mudras, these are movements performed with the
hands, which are called “finger yoga”. It works on the meridians, and its practice is very
similar to reflexology.
In the Vedic tradition, each finger of the hand is connected to a constituent :
The thumb is connected to fire : agni
The index finger is connected to air : vayu
The middle finger is connected to ether : akasha
The ring finger is connected to earth : prithvi
The little finger is connected to water : jala

Symbolically, each finger is related to one of the five (5) elements. Some of you will tell me
that there are only four (4) elements in our Universe. But not for Yoga. And many Eastern
philosophies. Indeed, there is a 5th element that corresponds to Ether, to the Void. And which
ultimately happens to be the most present element in our Universe.
The thumb is a symbol of Universal Consciousness and the index finger individual
Consciousness. The junction of the two symbolizes the state of Yoga, that is to say the unity
of man with Universal Consciousness and mental calm.
With a few exceptions, mudras are practiced 45 minutes a day either (1) time or three times
(3x) 15 minutes. This works by thinking about something else but it is more effective to focus
your attention on the mudra, its meaning and by associating it with a positive affirmation and
if possible a visualization.
Mudras can be done with the practice of an Asana (posture), during meditation, in queues, on
transport, while walking… It is a way to practice Yoga everywhere. The important thing is to
visualize and be focused on the Meaning of the Mudra practiced. A Mudra, to be truly
effective, must be practiced between 21 and 40 days.

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 3.2 Anjali mudra
Also called Atmanjali mudra, this is a simple yoga pose with many benefits that simply
involves pressing the palms of the hands together in front of the chest, often used to greet or
express gratitude. This Mudra is often called Namaskar Mudra/ Namaste Mudra because it is
usually followed by Namaskar/ Namaste, which is a form of greeting in India. Our brain is
made up of two hemispheres, the left hemisphere and the right hemisphere. When we join our
palms together in anjali mudra, it represents the balance between the two hemispheres. It also
promotes a better fluid connection between the two hemispheres. Anjali mudra makes us
more humble and down to earth. It teaches us harmony. Coexistence is the right way to go. A
world where you coexist with nature, the tree, the birds and the animals. By practicing this
Mudra, we can better understand coexistence and how we can harmonize with the external
and internal worlds. Practicing this brings calm, silence and peace.

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 3.3 Padma mudra
The Padma Mudra is a symbolic hand gesture that is often used in yoga and meditation to
promote inner peace, tranquility, and deep meditation. This mudra is associated with the lotus
flower, which is a symbol of purity and spiritual enlightenment in many Asian spiritual
traditions. By practicing it, your mind will leave behind all negativity and darkness. It is also
known as the Lotus Seal or the Lotus Hand Gesture because it resembles a lotus. By
practicing this, you can feel your heart opening to a new level. You feel emotionally well-
balanced. You become open to new challenges and experiences in life.
Through this mudra, we can achieve wealth, prosperity, and happiness. With happiness and
prosperity comes a sense of contentment. It helps to move from darkness to light. When
negativity surrounds us, we find ourselves in complete darkness. If we practice this Mudra in
the midst of such a state, it will uplift our mood and bring us back to the light. Positive things
will start coming into our lives. Practicing this can alleviate certain doshas (obstacles) in our
lives.

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 3.4 Uttarabodhi mudra
Uttarabodhi Mudra is considered the mudra of supreme knowledge and pure energy. It is
a gesture often performed during meditation to feel oneness with divine or universal energy
and to improve self-confidence and a sense of well-being. It is often recommended to
eliminate fear and anxiety, promoting a state of confidence and assurance. It is a Sanskrit
word composed of two words : Uttara means upward and Bodhi means closer to awakening.

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 3.5 Hakini mudra
Hakini Mudra is a symbolic hand gesture used in yoga and meditation to improve focus,
stimulate brain function, and promote mental clarity. This mudra is also believed to balance
the energy between the two hemispheres of the brain. Hakini Mudra is often practiced to help
improve memory, focus, creativity, and mental clarity. It can be used during activities that
require intense thought, such as studying, decision-making, or problem-solving.

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 3.6 Gyan mudra
Also called chin mudra, is a gesture seen as sacred. Gyan mudra is one of the most
important and famous mudras. It is found in Buddhist, Hindu and even yoga traditions. Gyan
means “knowledge” or “wisdom” in Sanskrit, this gesture is sometimes called the mudra of
knowledge. To perform it, circle the tips of the thumb and index finger of both hands. Keep
the other three fingers straight and palms facing up.

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 III.8 Dhyana mudra
The word Dhyana translates to Meditation. So the literal meaning of this Mudra is
a Meditative Gesture/Seal. To do this the hands are placed on the knees with the palms
facing upwards, promoting meditation. The word Dhyana is made up of two different
metals (called Dhatu in Sanskrit.) Dhi+Yana= Dhyana “Dhi” is the ability to think,
and “Yana” means “a vehicle.” Whatever motivates your thinking is Dhyana. When
you practice Dhyana Mudra and set an intention, you are signaling to this universe that
you are ready to receive positive energy. The bowl you create with your hands is filled
with positive thoughts, vibes and energy.

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 CONCLUSION
Our subtle body is filled with energy channels, the Nadis, which manage our
physiological and psychological processes. It is mainly on the surface of the feet and hands
that the Nadis accumulate. Hence the importance in Reflexology, of palmar and plantar
reflexology… By working with our fingers, we can harmonize our physical state, control our
emotions, increase our concentration and ultimately, harmonize our Individual Being with the
processes of the Universe. The practice of mudras is also called “Hand Yoga” and constitutes
a complementary practice to Yogasana (the practice of Asanas, postures) for those who want
to go further towards meditation and the continuation of the path…
“Like a kind of magical operation, the hand creates a whole universe whose origin is sealed in
the heart of man. The yogi is the extreme example, when the mudra encloses the breath inside
his body, giving life to the powerful Kundalini (cosmic energy)”, Katia Legeret – Traditional
Manual of Bharata-Nâtyam.
At first, one can easily be doubtful, find that all this has very little effect and wonder what it is
really for… But the perception of Mudras and their benefits develops over time, little by little,
as we increase our capacity to feel. It is possible that Mudras speak to you immediately and
appear as a beautiful practice of mental calm. But if not, take your time, be patient, keep their
existence in a corner of your head and practice one from time to time in order to tame it again.
This can take more or less time. With practice you will feel the effects more distinctly in your
body : tingling fingers, changes in your mental state, new sensations… With time you will
realize that the movements and combinations of our hands have effects on ourselves and you
will choose to invest in one state rather than another, depending on your desires.

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BIBLIOGRAPHICS REFERENCES

YouTube
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]

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CONTENTS
Summuray……………………………………………………………………………..01
Dedication……………………………………………………………………………..02
Acknowledgement…………………………………………………………………….03
Introduction…………………………………………………………………………...04
I Définition and origin of mudra…………………………….......................................05
1.1 Definition of mudras……………………………………………………………...05
1.2 Origin of mudras…………………………………………………….………..…..06
II Importance and use of mudras……………………………………………………...07
2.1 Importance of mudras……………………………………………………………..07
2.2 Use of mudras……………………………………………………………………..07
III Some mudras……………………………………………………….………………08
3.1 The basics…………………………………………………………………..……..08
3.2 Anjali mudra…………….…………………….………………………………….10
3.3 Padma mudra…………………………………………………………….…...…..12
3.4 Uttarabodhi mudra…………………………………………………………….….13
3.5 Hakini mudra………………………………..…………….…………………..….14
3.6 Gyan mudra……………………..……………………………………………..…15
3.7 Dhyana mudra……………………………………………………….…………...16
Conclusion…………………………………………………………………..………..18
Bibliographics références ………………………………………………...………….19

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