In this article we are going to look at a mudra that was used as a weapon by Indra, god of thunder. The Vajra Mudra.
What is Vajra Mudra
The Vajra Mudra is a hand gesture or seal that increases blood circulation.
Translated from Sanskrit it means “Thunderbolt” or a “sacred weapon.”
Among other benefits it is known to take you from ignorance to wisdom.
Therefore it is also called Bodhiyangi Mudra. As it symbolizes the indestructible nature of awareness and the power of insight.
See also: Practice Gyan Mudra. the Ancient Hand Gesture for Wisdom and Inner peace
How to Do the Vajra Mudra
To perform the Vajra Mudra follow these simple steps…
Step 1: Begin in a Comfortable Seated Position
Sit with your back straight, either on a chair with your feet flat on the ground or cross-legged on the floor. Rest your hands on your lap, and close your eyes to center yourself for a moment.
Step 2: Extend Both Hands in Front of You
Extend both of your hands in front of you with palms facing upwards.
Step 3: Touch the Fingers and Thumb
For each hand, touch the index, ring and small fingers to the thumb. The main gentle pressure on the thumb should be between the index and ring finger. The small finger is just resting against the thumb.
Step 4: Extend the Index Finger
While keeping the other fingers in this connected position, extend your index fingers out straight (like a thunderbolt!)
Step 5: Place Your hands on your lap.
Taking your hands in the mudra and place them on your laps, palms facing upwards.
Step 6: Focus and Meditate
Close your eyes, and take a few deep breaths. You can either focus on your breathing or meditate on the symbolic meaning of the Vajra Mudra, contemplating the qualities of clarity, indestructibility, and insight.
Maintain the mudra for as long as you feel comfortable. Starting with a few minutes and gradually increasing over time can be helpful.
Step 7: Release and Ground
When you’re ready to conclude your meditation or practice, slowly release the mudra. Take a few moments to ground yourself, taking deep breaths and becoming aware of your surroundings.
Benefits of Vajra Mudra
- Stimulates blood circulation
- Improves Low blood pressure
- Reduces dizziness and fatigue
- Especially reduces pressure and circulation around the head
- Prevents heart disease
- Improves immune system
- Improves memory
- Sharpens the mind
- Helps when you are tired
- Improves the Respiratory system
- Improves stiffness in body
- Increases energy and vitality
Elements Associated With Vajra Mudra
The main element associate with the vajra mudra is the Earth eleemet. When the earth element is not in balance it hinders blood circulation.
Earth is associated with heart, spleen and pancreas. This mudra balances these organs.
In this Mudra, the intertwining of fingers harmonizes all five elemental energies, channelling clarity and indestructible insight.
Tips to Improve Practice
- You can use the Vajra Mudra with side bending yoga asanas to improve its benefits.
- To enhance its benefits, use the Index finger to massage root of the nose, centre of forehead, nape of neck, back of the head
- Cautions: If you have high blood pressure or are pregnant then do not practice this mudra fro a long time. Consult your doctor and an experienced yoga teacher.
- The morning good time to practice this mudra because, this is the time when you brain is most receptive.
- Practice 10-15 minutes daily
Conclusion
The Vajra Mudra is a hand gesture that helps with blood circulation and improves low blood pressure. It is associated with the earth element.
Practice it for 15 minutes a day and you will also improve your memory, brain function, transmute ignorance to wisdom and like prana mudra increase energy.
Remember, when you practice the vajra mudra, like any other spiritual or meditative practice, it requires consistency and patience.
As you become familiar with the Vajra Mudra and its symbolism, you will find deeper levels of wisdom and understanding in your meditation.