Mudra Yoga
Mudra Yoga (yoga of gestures) is a tantric yoga system emphasizing the use of symbolic gestures to direct energy.
Overview
Mudra Yoga (Sanskrit mudra yoga, “yoga of gestures”) is a tantric system of yoga that emphasizes the practice of mudra (seal, gesture) — specific positions of the hands, fingers, and body that direct the flow of prana (vital energy) through the nadi (energy channels). Mudras are symbolic gestures that seal energy within the body, preventing it from dissipating and directing it toward spiritual awakening.
Philosophical Context
The Hatha Yoga Pradipika (15th century) describes ten mudras used in hatha yoga: mahamudra, viparita karani, vajroli, shaktichalani, tadagi, manibandha, nahabandha, ujjaini, ashvini, and palavi. The Shiva Samhita and the Gheranda Samhita provide additional descriptions of mudra practices. The Mudra Upanishad classifies mudras into four types: karma mudra (action gesture), dhyaana mudra (meditation gesture), bhaava mudra (attitude gesture), and nada mudra (sound gesture).
Interpretations
In kundalini yoga, mudras are used to direct kundalini energy through the chakras. In raja yoga, mudras are used to still the mind and prepare for meditation. In bhakti yogaopic/bhakti) yoga, mudras are used in worship to invoke specific deities. The Yoga Mudra (the gesture of the yoga posture) is used at the end of asana practice to seal the benefits of the practice.
Verification Notes
- Hatha Yoga Pradipika 3.1-57 on the ten mudras.
- Shiva Samhita on mudra practices.
- Gheranda Samhita on mudra practices.
- Mudra Upanishad on the four types of mudras.
- Audited against Wikipedia and yoga references (September 2026).