Jnana Mudra: Gesture of wisdom
Jnana Mudra belongs to the category of hand postures or gestures in yoga. It’s often grouped under a subcategory called Vikas Mudra, which focuses on developing and maintaining overall health. These mudras restore balance among the body’s elements, helping a sick body return to wellness, hence the term developmental mudras.
Because of its calming effect on the mind, Jnana Mudra is also known as Dhyana Mudra, the gesture commonly used during meditation. Regular practice helps quiet the mind and deepen focus, making it an ideal companion for meditation and breathwork.
The Sanskrit word Jnana means “knowledge.” As the name suggests, Jnana Mudra symbolizes wisdom and self-awareness. According to the Yoga Shastras, the index finger represents the ego, while the thumb represents universal consciousness. When the index finger bends to touch the thumb, it signifies the merging of the individual self with the universal self, the moment when wisdom overcomes ego.
Practice this mudra regularly and experience how it nurtures clarity, peace, and inner growth.
Jnana Mudra Benefits :
Jnana Mudra is said to be one of the most therapeutic postures a person can practice. Some of the health benefits of this gesture include.
1)- Reducing nervous tension from the body
2)- boosting memory
3)- treatment of insomnia
4)- Developing creativity
5)- Enhancing spirituality
6)- Increase mental peace.
7)- Regulation of air flow in the body
8)- Stabilize the mind.
While there are no known side effects that are associated with jnana Mudra, it is best that one consults a doctor before practicing yoga.
Follow the steps :
While practicing jnana Mudra, make sure that you are sitting comfortably in the meditation posture, with your eyes closed.
- Place your hands on your knees in such a way that the inner part of your wrist rests on the knees and the palm is facing down.
- Draw a circle by bringing your index finger and thumb together. Ensure that the index finger nails the thumb joint first.
- Keep the other three fingers extended.
