There are five elements present in the body, known as Panchamahabhoots in Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, the balance of all these five elements is extremely important to stay healthy and promote longevity. Yoga Mudras are hand gestures that stimulate specific areas of the brain and restore the balance of specific elements in the body and the mind. These Mudras press acupuncture meridians present in the hands and redirect the flow of energy or Prana in the body. Some of the Yoga Mudras that help to balance Panchamahabhutas are Vayu Mudra, Varuna Mudra, Surya Mudra and Prithvi Mudra.
What is Vayu Mudra?
Vayu Mudra is a Yoga hand gesture that helps to balance the air element in the body. Vayu means air, and Mudra means gesture. According to Ayurveda, the thumb controls the fire element, whereas the index finger is the seat of the air element. In Vayu Mudra, the thumb overpowers the index finger, suppressing air and regulating the element in the body.
What are the Benefits of Vayu Mudra?
- Prevents and Cures Vata Disorders: Vayu Mahabhoot or air element is one of the five elements that constitute our body. In Ayurveda, the air element is associated with Vata Dosha. Therefore, any imbalance in the air element can cause Vata disorders such as cervical spondylosis, gas, bloating, etc. Vayu Mudra helps to regulate the flow of Prana to balance the air element and prevent such diseases in the body.
- Reduces Symptoms of Parkinson’s Disease: Parkinson’s disease is a degenerative disorder in which the nerve cells of the brain get affected. Vayu Mudra helps to recover and regenerate these damaged and dead nerve cells, thereby helping in relieving the symptoms of Parkinson’s disease.
- Eliminates Gastric Problems: Gastric problems are associated with excess air in the body. Vayu Mudra helps to remove excess air and eliminate gastric problems. Furthermore, Vayu Mudra also stimulates the vagus nerves which aid in relieving many gastrointestinal problems such as gas, indigestion, bloating, acid reflux and more.
- Boosts Immunity: Vayu Mudra is also highly effective in building immunity in the body. It helps to prevent colds, flu and many other diseases in the body.
- Relieves Psychological Disorders: Vayu Mudra calms the nervous system and restores peace of mind. It helps to relieve psychological disorders such as anxiety, depression, anger, etc. You may perform this Mudra while meditating or doing Pranayamas for effective results.
- Reduces Pain: Vayu Mudra is highly beneficial in pain management. It helps to relieve neck pain, knee pain and pain associated with sciatica, gout, cervical spondylosis, vertigo and more.
- Stimulates Endocrine Glands: The endocrine gland is responsible for regulating hormones in the body. Vayu Mudra helps to stimulate the endocrine gland and prevent any hormonal imbalance. It is also highly effective in preventing metabolic and sexual disorders.
How to Do Vayu Mudra?
Step 1: Sit or lie in any comfortable seating posture. It is extremely important to feel relaxed for this Mudra to work. You may also sit in any Yoga position such as Padmasana, Vajrasana, Sukhasana, etc.
Step 2: Keep your palms faced upside and fold your index finger in such a way that the tip of your forefinger touches the base of your thumb. The thumb should come over your finger.
Step 3: Exert a slight pressure with the thumb on your finger and try to extend all the other fingers. Keep them as straight as possible.
Step 4: Close your eyes and take deep breaths. Concentrate on your Mudra for 5 minutes or as per your convenience. Then, gradually release your Mudra and open your eyes.
Precautions and Side Effects of Vayu Mudra
Vayu Mudra does not have any side effects. However, you must not exert mighty pressure on the finger. Yoga Mudras should always be done in a relaxed and comfortable position.
Takeaway:
Vayu Mudra is a highly beneficial Yoga hand gesture that can help you alleviate various Vata disorders. It is also highly effective in reducing pain in the body and boosting blood circulation. Regular practice of this Mudra can soothe your mind and body.
