Even with our busy schedules, finding a way to relax and stay balanced is very important. And that is why Yogaasan is here today to tell you about something that can help you achieve many benefits for your mind & body- Vayu Mudra. It is a simple hand gesture (sign) that comes from ancient yoga practices and has the power to improve your physical and mental health. In the following blog post, we will discuss Vayu Mudra, how to do Vayu Mudra and the benefits & contraindications of performing this Mudra. Join us as we discuss this mudra in detail.
What is Vayu Mudra?
Vayu Mudra is a type of Hasta Mudra (Hand Gesture) that is used when you practice yoga asanas and Ayurveda. The term Vayu Mudra comes from a Sanskrit word, where Vayu means Air, and Mudra means Gesture. Together, it signifies the balance and control of the air element within the body. It is often connected with balancing the Vata dosha in Ayurveda.
When you practice this Mudra, you place the tip of your index finger at the base of your thumb. After that, you gently press the thumb against the index finger (bent). The other three fingers stay straight. This Mudra is derived from Ancient Indian practices and offers both physical and spiritual benefits. Want to how this mudra works and what are the benefits of it? Let’s discuss further information in detail.
Science Behind Vayu Mudra Yoga
When it comes to Mudras, it’s believed that our fingers symbolize five elements that are mainly fire, air, water, earth, and space. When you press the index finger or Air Element in Vayu Mudra, a circuit is created that helps balance the air within your body. This is a simple process that stimulates specific nerves and redirects life energy, also known as Prana or प्राण in Hindi.
The air element is necessary for movement, respiration, and circulation. But if you have excess air present in your body, it can lead to issues like bloating, anxiety and restlessness. That is why when you perform vayu mudra, it releases the excess air and stabilizes your internal functions.
What are the Vayu Mudra Benefits?
If you practice Vayu Mudra regularly, it can provide a lot of physical, mental and emotional benefits to you. Let’s discuss Vayu Mudra benefits in detail:
- Relieves joint pain and stiffness and also helps aid problems like arthritis, osteoporosis and gout.
- Reduces bloating or gastric issues that ultimately help in digestion.
- Calms the mind and reduces anxiety, sadness and panic.
- Increases concentration and promotes mental clarity.
- Helps you with problems like asthma and bronchitis.
- Help in treating insomnia, Parkinson’s disease, and sciatica.
How To Do Vayu Mudra?
Vayu Mudra Pose is quite easy to perform but you need to put complete focus to attain the maximum benefits. To perform Vayu Mudra Yoga, follow the below steps:
- As per your comfort zone, you can choose to sit, stand, or lie down on the floor comfortably, keeping your spine straight.
- Now, you need to fold your index finger toward your thumb’s base.
- Slowly press your thumb over your index fingers and keep your other fingers straight.
- Now, close your eyes and relax. Take deep breaths and chant “Om”.
- You can practice the session for 5 to 15 minutes when you are meditating or practicing Vayu Mudra yoga.
Note: You can rest your hands on your knees with palms either up or down. You can also practice the Yoga Mudra by sitting in Tadasana or Virabhadrasana III Yoga Pose.
Contraindications of Vayu Mudra
Performing Vayu Mudra Yoga is completely safe and beneficial, but some individuals should not perform this air gesture:
- Pregnant women should not practice this mudra for too long.
- If you are suffering from chronic illness/diseases like heart or respiratory problems, you should take guidance from a yoga expert first.
- If you have your Kapha or Pitta Doshas imbalanced, practicing this asana for a longer period of time is not suitable.
Key Takeaways
Thank you for always being an important part of the Yogaasan family. We hope by now you are all aware of how to do Vayu Mudra. Don’t forget to add this Mudra to your daily life; it can bring calmness to your mind and make you happy and fit overall. Practicing the Vayu Mudra pose is safe and beneficial, but you should always keep the contraindications in mind before practicing it. Start with us today and experience the change within yourself. Namaste!
