There are so many beautiful and healing mudras we can incorporate into our yoga, pranayama and meditation practices. Mudras channel our Prana, the vital life force energy in our bodies.
Today, the spotlight is on the Ganesha Mudra, the mudra of removing obstacles. Named after the Hindu elephant God, Ganesha, adding this mudra to our practice helps to invoke his power of removing obstacles and give us confidence and courage to overcome anything that may be holding us back.
To practice Ganesha Mudra, place your palms together at heart-center. With your palms together, swivel each hand so your fingertips point toward the opposite elbow keeping your right palm facing your body. Slide the hands back until the fingers lock together and the hands grasp one another. Both thumbs rest on top of the opposite hand. Chanting (aloud or silently) a Ganesh mantra, such as “Om Gam Ganapataye Namaha,” can strengthen the power of this mudra. Below is a beautiful example by Edo & Jo.
The Ganesha mudra has many healing benefits to the mind and body. It relieves stress and tension in the body, helps us approach life with an open heart (stimulates our anahata or heart chakra), cultivates a sense of inner-power, helps strengthen the muscles of the shoulders, arms and chest, boosts self-esteem and confidence and may be helpful for depression, sadness and heartache.
So, find a comfortable and quiet place to sit. Place your hands at Namaskar (heart-center) and find your Ganesha Mudra. Practice this multiple times a week and feel your heart open and confidence to tackle anything that may come your way.
See you on the mat!
Namaste
YogaCult 