The magic of mudras

The magic of mudras

The magic of mudras
In his second article on mudras, Abhaykumar Shah imparts some rudimentary but essential information on the topic

In this issue, we will learn the technicalities of Mudra Science by way of some FAQ I encountered while giving consultations:

 How do mudras influence the Five Elements in our body?
Mudras are designed for three purposes: to increase, to decrease, and to balance the energy of the given Element. 

 What kinds of gestures are designed to help increase, decrease, or balance the amount of energy of the given Element?
Balance: By joining the tip of the thumb with the tip of the finger, a balance of the Element of that finger is obtained.
(For example, if one wants to balance the Earth Element, the tips of the thumb and the ring finger should be joined.)
Increase: By touching the root of the finger with the tip of the thumb, an increase in the Element of that finger is achieved.
Decrease: By touching the root of the thumb with the tip of the finger and then placing the thumb over the back of the finger, a decrease is obtained in the Element of that finger. 

 Should a mudra be performed with both hands?
Yes, because performing it with one hand will manifest an effect on the opposite side of the body only. 

 Do we require a particular yoga asana to perform mudras?
Sitting in yoga asana and controlling the respiration, coupled with chanting, surely produces better results, but it is not mandatory. A mudra performed even while watching TV produces quite effective results. 

 Do we need to put pressure on the touching portion of the fingers while performing mudras?
No, it is not acupressure. Only a simple but confirmed touch is sufficient. (When the word ‘tip’ is mentioned, the skin before the nail is considered. Those fingers not involved in the mudra gesture should be placed in a comfortably straight position.) 

 Are the benefits of mudras equally bestowed on all?
Those who do not believe in the veracity of Mudra Science, those who have lost their senses, those in a euphoric state or who are mentally ill, and even infants are equally profited by mudras. 

 How long do mudras take to manifest their effect?
While balancing the Element, the effect will be manifested after 48 minutes. Mudras performed for clinical purposes show their results quickly. Some of the mudras manifest their effects almost immediately. The practice of mudras employed with the intention of treating a particular disease or disorder should be continued till the symptoms persist. These mudras are practised for a stretch of time not exceeding 6/ 10 / 16 minutes. Some mudras are best at 48 minutes and some highly beneficial mudras do not have a time limit to them. 

 Are there special instructions regarding direction, place, and time to perform mudras?
Mudras can be done in any condition, place, and time, in general. But those mudras which are undertaken for the benefit of spiritual and occult practices, there are instructions about postures, positions, direction, and time too. 

From the next issue, we will start discussing some important mudras.