Vayu (air, wind) + mudra (yogic hand gesture)
Sanskrit – वायु मुद्रा
Chakras – Heart Chakra (Anahata Chakra)
Ayurvedic Element – Air
Table of Contents
What Is Vayu Mudra?
Vayu Mudra, or the Air Mudra, is formed by combining the two words Vayu and Mudra. Vayu is a Sanskrit term which means Air or Wind. Mudra is a Sanskrit term that means gesture, mark or seal.
Vayu Mudra controls the air element or air pressure of the body. The air in our bodies is responsible for circulation, movement, and even the transmission of thought signals from one part of the body to another.
According to Ayurveda, there are 49 vayus in our body, 5 of which are vital and the remaining 5 are subsidiary. Each of which serves a distinct purpose. In order to balance the air element in the body, the vayu mudra directs the flow of prana. However, for best results, one should combine it with pranayama or meditation.
How To Practice Vayu Mudra
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Begin by sitting in your preferred position. In which you are most at ease. Easy Pose, Padmasana or Vajrasana.
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With your palms facing up, place your hands on your thighs.
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Close your eyes and focus on your breathing. Breathing stimulates Prana flow throughout the body, and closing your eyes improves concentration with practice.
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Slowly bring your index finger to the base of your thumb. To firmly hold the index finger, fold the thumb over it.
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All other fingers should be extended.
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Hold for as long as you feel comfortable.
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To release – Take deep breaths while slowly releasing the index finger and thumb.
Time Duration To Perform Vayu Mudra
- To fully experience the benefits of Vayu Mudra, Do this gesture for 30 minutes per day. Which can be done in sets of three or all at once.
- Practice in a quiet area where you won’t be disturbed.
- Use this mudra in the morning to help your body feel calm and balanced.
Benefits Of Vayu Mudra
- Vayu Mudra balances the air element in the body, which relieves gas and digestive problems. It also stimulates the Vagus nerve and aids digestion by eliminating gas.
- Vayu Mudra helps in the removal of toxins and harmful chemicals from the body, as well as the reduction of acidity and the promotion of waste elimination.
- Vayu mudra directs subtle energy to the brain, activating the Hypothalamus and stimulating the endocrine system.
- Vayu Mudra has been believed to help regenerate dead nerve cells and repair damage caused by Parkinson’s disease.
- A weak immune system can cause frequent infections and serious health problems if not treated. Ayurveda suggests that by touching specific pressure points on the index finger, the immune system can be strengthened over time.
- Modern lifestyle has caused people to become busy and restless, leading to stress and sorrow. Practicing Vayu mudra in Meditation or Pranayama can bring back happiness and peace of mind.
- Vayu Mudra regulates air elements in the body, which promotes hair growth by strengthening the hair roots.
- It helps in keeping your calm and improving your sleeping patterns.
Contraindications Of Vayu Mudra
- Avoid Vayu Mudra during fever, cold, or flu.
- If you have any hand or wrist injuries, avoid performing this mudra.
- If you experience any pain or discomfort while doing the mudra, stop immediately.
How To Use Vayu Mudra In Yoga
Mantra
Om (🕉)
- Om is the sound of Universal Consciousness. Chanting Om aligns our mind with this higher consciousness, bringing harmony to our lives.
- It also increases life force energy in our body, leading to greater connection, clarity, and happiness.
For Pranayama
- Vayu mudra can be done while pranayama or even while walking. When performing pranayamas, you can keep your fingers in Vayu mudra.
For Meditation
- This mudra is commonly used in meditation and can be paired with any meditation practice.
- It can be done in various seated positions or even while standing, sitting in a chair, or lying down.
In Yoga Asana
Depending on your comfort level, you can perform the vayu mudra in Easy Pose, Padmasana, or Vajrasana. We connect with our higher selves using it during yoga sessions. It calms the mind and aids in spiritual awakening, self-expression, and true existence.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
What is Vayu Mudra for?
Vayu Mudra is a hand gesture that helps balance the air element in the body, relieving gas and digestive issues. It stimulates the Vagus nerve, aids digestion, and eliminates toxins. This mudra activates the Hypothalamus, stimulates the endocrine system, and is believed to regenerate dead nerve cells and repair damage caused by Parkinson’s disease.
What is the benefit of Vayu Mudra?
Vayu Mudra balances air in the body, aiding digestion and relieving gas. It helps remove toxins, reduces acidity, and promotes waste elimination. The mudra stimulates the brain, repairs nerve damage, and strengthens the immune system. Practicing Vayu Mudra brings happiness, peace, and improves sleep. It also promotes hair growth and helps maintain calmness.
How to use Vayu Mudra?
Vayu mudra is a hand gesture used in yoga for various purposes. It can be done during pranayama, meditation, or yoga asanas. Chanting the mantra “Om” while using this mudra aligns the mind with higher consciousness. It increases life force energy, brings harmony, clarity, and happiness. This mudra can be done in different seated or standing positions.
Can we do Vayu Mudra daily?
Yes, Vayu mudra can be practiced up to 30 minutes per day, three times for 10 minutes each.
Which chakra is Vayu Mudra for?
Vayu Mudra is for Heart Chakra or Anahata Chakra.