Apana Mudra

Mudras are yoga for your hands. This week I introduce Apana Mudra, also known as the Energy Mudra. It can be helpful with elimination, grounding, release, and letting go. It is also practiced when we want to visualize things more clearly. Personally, I practice this mudra when I'm anxious (so pretty much every time I read the news.) The next time you'd like to add a little more calm to your life -- or are making future plans -- sit for a few moments (or minutes) with both hands in the below position, resting on your knees or thighs. I hope it helps.

Place the thumb, middle, and ring fingers together. Other fingers are extended.

from the book Mudras: Yoga In Your Hands by Gertrud Hirschi