What is a Mudra? Anuradha's Workshops State of Orissa| What is a Mudra? |
 Mudra signifies movement of consciousness. In the ancient Sanskrit dialect, (Deva Nagari), we can trace the etymology of the word "movement" to originate from the word Mudra. A Mudra consists of a combination of techniques derived from profound inner wisdom. They were shared by merciful Saints, Gods and Goddesses from various cultures in order to aid us in controlling the ongoing flow of energy entering and exiting through our untamed senses. With the practice of different Mudras we can develop healthier control of our continuous energy flow and our emotional senses of both pleasure and pain. A Mudra expresses the holy nature of human beings. It purifies the senses and the mind. When one experiences the inner movement of life one can see that the outer world is simply an expression of our internal state of mind. The Mudra helps us cleanse our inner activities so that we may express and share a divine reality. What separates a Mudra from an ordinary hand posture? It is the expression and intention we put into the gesture. Similarly, we can send a loving hand to another or with the same movement we can reject someone. To activate a Mudra the ancient scriptures recommend using the proper gesture with a specific visualization and the referred Mantra. All three combined can activate an inner movement of consciousness that enlightens us and accompanied with a higher frequency of vibration, will radiate through our hearts and all around us. For example, if we use the Prithivi Mudra, (Mudra of Compassion), with the Tara Mantra and visualize peace in our heart, compassion will awaken our soul and radiate from within and without. Mudras are devotional gestures that foster spiritual growth, enhance emotional wisdom, create inner well being and facilitate divine remembrance. © Anuradha Devi, 2007 |
