The Secret within your Hands.
Our hands are the most active tools of the human body. We use them all the time—to eat, write, play, and express ourselves. Our hands have millions of sensory receptors, which makes them very sensitive to touch, pressure, temperature, and texture. In many ways, they are an extension of how we feel and communicate.
That’s why gestures are such a big part of our language. Different cultures have their own unique signs—for example, the “thumbs up” gesture shows approval in many Western countries, but in some parts of the Middle East, it can be considered rude.
Touch carries powerful meaning. A handshake, a gentle touch, or placing a hand on a friend’s shoulder can instantly show warmth, care, and support. Through our hands, we not only interact with the world but also connect with others in a deeply human way.
In massage, Reiki, and other energy treatments, Therapists and Healers often use their hands to guide energy flow. A common sensation people notice is warmth or heat coming through their hands.
Each finger is connected to specific energy pathways, or meridians, that influence certain organ systems. So practicing Mudras can stimulate nerves, improve circulation, and support overall balance.
Here are 3 examples for your own practice:
Hakini Mudra – Gesture of Mental Power
Also called the “Mudra of the Mind” or “Brain Power Mudra,” Hakini is believed to enhance concentration, memory, and mental clarity by connecting the two hemispheres of the brain. It helps cultivate focus, intuition, and inner wisdom. You may have seen thinkers or politicians using this gesture—former German Chancellor Angela Merkel, for example, was well known for this Hand gesture.
How: Bring all fingertips of both hands together, touching corresponding fingertips. Keep palms slightly apart, fingers relaxed, and hands at chest level or in front of the heart.
Benefits: Improves focus, sharpens memory, balances brain hemispheres, stimulates intuitive thinking, and supports meditation and mental clarity.
Kalesvara Mudra – Gesture of Stress Relief
Also known as the “Lord of Time Mudra,” Kalesvara Mudra is associated with Kalesvara, a form of Shiva. It helps calm the mind, improve focus, and gain control over thoughts and emotions. This mudra is particularly useful for relieving stress, tension, and mental fatigue, and can restore balance during meditation or stressful situations.
How: Touch your index fingertips together and join your thumbs to form a heart shape. Curl the other fingers inward and rest your hands near the chest. For stress relief, place fingertips at the forehead with thumbs at the base of the skull, close your eyes, and breathe gently.
Benefits: Relieves headaches, calms the mind, improves concentration, restores mental balance, and reduces stress and tension.
Kaki Mudra – Crow’s Beak Gesture
Also known as the “Crow’s Beak Mudra,” is a yogic practice that focuses on mindful breathing. It helps improve digestion, calm the mind, balance body temperature, and strengthen immunity. This mudra is especially useful for promoting relaxation, supporting digestive health, and enhancing overall vitality.
How: Pucker your lips to form a shape like a crow’s beak, keeping your tongue on the lower palate. Slowly inhale through your mouth as if sipping through a straw, then exhale gently through your nose. Maintain a relaxed posture and repeat for several breaths.
Benefits: Improves digestion, calms the mind, balances body temperature, and boosts immunity.
Final Thoughts
Using mudras in your Yoga practice is an easy way to become more aware and create gentle but powerful changes in your body and mind. Try practicing one mudra for a few minutes each day. Over time, you might notice more focus, energy, and balance—both on the mat and in your daily life.
Thank you ! Take care, and enjoy your Yoga practice. Andrea Stern