Prithvi (earth) + mudra (yogic hand gesture)
Sanskrit – पृथ्वी मुद्रा
Chakras – Root Chakra
Ayurvedic Element – Earth
Table of Contents
What Is Prithvi Mudra?
Prithvi Mudra, or the Earth Gesture, is formed by combining the two words Prithvi and Mudra. Prithvi means ‘vast one’ and here denote the Earth. Mudra is a Sanskrit term that means gesture, mark or seal.
It is one of the popular yoga mudras for invoking the earth element in the body. The Earth element is represented by the ring finger, whereas the Fire element is represented by the thumb.
Our daily lives depend greatly on the earth element, which has a profound effect on both our physical and mental health. By balancing this element, we will become stronger, more confident, and more steady.
In a more profound way, Prithvi mudra helps individuals who want to find a sense of stability while meditating. It might enable one to engage in meditation at a deeper level of consciousness.
How To Practice Prithvi Mudra
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Sit comfortable in any seated yoga position. Like Sukhasana, Padmasana, or Vajrasana.
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With your palms facing up, place your hands on your thighs.
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Fold the ring finger and the tip of this finger is gently pressed against the tip of the thumb.
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Extend and maintain the remaining three fingers as extended as you can.
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Hold this position during your pranayama or meditation practice.
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To release – Gently release your fingers and relax your palms. And take some deep breath.
Time Duration To Perform Prithvi Mudra
To fully experience the benefits of Prithvi Mudra, Do this gesture for 30 minutes per day. Which can be done in sets of three or all at once.
It is also recommended to perform the mudra in morning to prepare for the day ahead or right before bed to relax the body and ease into sleep.
Meditation can be more effective by performing a few rounds of Prithvi Mudra with slow, deep breathing.
You can also use it for as long as your pranayama practice lasts.
Benefits Of Prithvi Mudra
- Prithvi Mudra raises energy levels, prevents weakness and laziness, and promotes smooth flow of prana (life force energy). This stimulates nerves and maintains body balance.
- Prithvi Mudra stimulates muladhara chakra, promoting grounding and self-acceptance. The muladhara chakra, located at the base of the spine, is associated with qualities like confidence, flexibility, strength, security, and more.
- The use of the thumb which represents agni in Prithvi Mudra is said to reduce heat in the body. When practiced on a regular basis, the body temperature can be maintained, which is also beneficial in keeping ulcers under control.
- By increasing earth and decreasing fire, it may help those who struggle to gain body weight and strength.
- Because the earth element is the primary component for tissue growth, it is said that practicing Prithvi Mudra can help with hair growth and body weight.
- It helps us think more clearly and increases our physical and mental endurance, which improves our performance.
Contraindications Of Prithvi Mudra
This mudra is not advised for pregnant women, anyone with excessive Kapha dosha, or people who have shoulder, arm, or hand injuries.
Don’t press too hard on the tips of your fingers. This will make it difficult for you to concentrate.
How To Use Prithvi Mudra In Yoga
Mantra
Om Namah Shivaya
Which means “I Bow down to Shiva” is one of the mantras that is typically used with this mudra. It is used to attain inner peace and a sense of peacefulness which allows deeper reflection.
For Pranayama
Yoga practitioners frequently combine the Prithvi mudra with the Three Part Breath, also known as Dirga Pranayama. A grounding breathing exercise. Three-Part Breath begins with completely filling your lungs with air, as if you were breathing into your belly, ribs, and upper chest. Then you totally exhale, reversing the flow, and repeat a few times.
For Meditation
- The mudra can be done in any meditation posture, including Sukhasana, Padmasana, and Vajrasana.
- The mudra is an excellent choice for any kind of meditation that focuses on balancing the Root chakra.
- It may assist you in staying energized and grounded during your time of meditation.
In Yoga Asana
Prithvi Mudra is a yoga practice can be done in Padmasana or Sukhasana, depending on comfort. It aids in connecting with our higher selves, promoting relaxation, calmness, self-expression, true existence, and spiritual awakening.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is Prithvi Mudra?
Prithvi Mudra, or Earth Gesture, is a yoga mudra that invokes the earth element in the body. The word “Prithvi” means Earth, while “Mudra” signifies gesture or seal. This mudra is formed by joining the thumb (representing the Fire element) with the ring finger (representing the Earth element).
How long should one hold the Prithvi Mudra for maximum benefits?
To fully experience the benefits of Prithvi Mudra, Do this gesture for 30 minutes per day. Which can be done in sets of three or all at once.
What are the steps to do prithvi mudra?
Sit comfortably in positions like Sukhasana, Padmasana, or Vajrasana. Place your hands on your thighs with palms facing up. Fold the ring finger and press its tip against the tip of the thumb. Keep the other three fingers extended. Maintain this position during pranayama or meditation.
What are the benefits of prithvi mudra?
Prithvi Mudra is a hand gesture that can have several benefits. It increases energy levels, prevents weakness and laziness, and promotes the smooth flow of life force energy. It also stimulates the muladhara chakra, which brings grounding and self-acceptance. The use of the thumb in this mudra can reduce body heat and help maintain body temperature, which is beneficial for controlling ulcers.