Vishnu Mudra (Lord Vishnu Hand Gesture): Steps, Benefits & More

Vishnu Mudra also known as Mrigi Mudra or called the “Universal Balancing Gesture“ is a very useful hand gesture yogis used to practiced in honor of Lord Vishnu. This hand gesture is also most useful application in Anulom Vilom Pranayama aka alternate nostril breathing, which brings harmony in yogis body and mind.

In this post, we explain the meaning, steps, and benefits of using Vishnu mudra in pranayama.

Vishnu Mudra – Lord Vishnu Hand Gesture

The Vishnu mudra is the symbol of God Vishnu. God Vishnu is a Hindu deity whose role is to protect humans and keep the universe in balance. Vishnu is the protector of the world in Hindu mythology.

Etymology – The Vishnu Mudra

Lord Vishnu is regarded as the Preserver in Hindu mythology. Depicted in various forms and incarnations, Vishnu often carries specific attributes or symbols that represent different aspects of his power and influence. One of these symbols is the mudra, or hand gesture, associated with Vishnu.

The hand gesture or mudra associated with Lord Vishnu is known as the “Vishnu Mudra.” This gesture involves the index and middle finger down towards the palm, touching the base of the thumb while the other fingers remain extended. It symbolizes consciousness and unity with the divine.

The word “mudra” itself comes from Sanskrit, meaning “seal,” “mark,” or “gesture.” Mudras are used in various Hindu rituals, dances, and iconography to convey specific meanings or invoke certain energies associated with different deities.

In the case of Lord Vishnu, the Vishnu Mudra reflects aspects of his divine power, representing his role in maintaining balance and harmony in the universe. It signifies knowledge, wisdom, and the connection between individual consciousness and the universal consciousness that Vishnu embodies. This is why mudra also called the “Universal Balancing Gesture“.

Pranayama with Vishnu Mudra

It is one of the hand gestures used in breathing techniques where one or both nostrils are blocked. Because some pranayama techniques (single nostrils pranayamas) such as Chandra Bhedana or Surya Bhedana (Sun / Moon Breathing) or Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing) are one nostril to breathe at a time, while the other nostril is lightly closed.

According to Ayurveda– Yoga Mudras are considered as healing. The Sanskrit word mudra means body gestures (body configuration) or tendency. Mudras help in creating a balance between the five elements and enhance the smooth energy flow in the human body. mudra is known as “energy seal”.

This mudra stimulated the first three chakras – The Muladhara (root – for grounding and stability.) Svadisthana (Sacral- for enjoyment and relationships.) and Manipura (Solar Plexus- for personal power and inner fire.)

Here we give a detail explanation about the this mudra and why it is important, benefits of Vishnu mudra and how to do and side effects also.

Steps To Do Vishnu mudra

Vishnu Mudra associated with the nadis that performing together with deep breathing and meditation asanas. It is a yogic hand gesture that performs by the thumb and ring finger.

There are some simple steps that will explain how to do Vishnu Hasta Mudra.

• First of all, sit in any comfortable seating posture and place the hands with palm pointing upwards on the thighs or the knees.
• Meditation postures like Padmasana, or Siddhasana etc. are ideal for the practice of mudras.
• Close your eyes and take some deep breaths with the awareness of the breathing process.
• Now, (Always practice with your right hand) raise the right hand with the elbow bent.
• After this, curl the index finger and middle finger in towards the palm of the hand or in the root of the thumb.
• The rest of the thumb and two fingers (little and ring) should be keep extended as much as possible.
• In Nadi Shodhana with Vishnu mudra, The thumb and fingers rest lightly just above the nostrils.
• The yogi uses the thumb to close the right nostril while inhaling through the left nostril.
• After this, the ring finger closes the left nostril and then the thumb is released. so, the yogi exhales through the right nostril.
• Removing all thoughts from the mind has to focus the mind only on chanting OM.
• The left hand, either keep it relax on the left knee or one can make Gyan Mudra for better concentration in practice.
• Perform this pose for 30 minutes at a stretch every day or for 10 to 12 minutes three times a day.

Why Vishnu Mudra with Right Hand Only?

Using only the right hand for the Vishnu Mudra might be done for several reasons:

Balance of energy: The right side of the body is associated with the Pingala Nadi, the channel that represents heat, action, and masculine energy according to yogic philosophy.

Focus and intention: By using only one hand, practitioners can concentrate more on the specific energy associated with that hand.

In some practices, using only the right hand for Vishnu Mudra could be a traditional or prescribed method passed down through teachings.

Vishnu Mudra Benefits

• The mudra always uses for single nostrils pranayama) such as Nadi Shodan Pranayama to improves breathing quality.
• It reduces mental and physical stress as well as offers you emotional and physical energy.
• It is quite beneficial to treats conditions of constipation, gastric acidity, allergic problems, and snoring and Cures asthma, headache, migraine, neurological problems, heart blockage, and depression.
• This Mudra associated with the nadis that purifies the Nadis and clears any impurities from it.

Side Effects

However, all mudras are beneficial to us without any side-effects. Pressure should not be applied on the finger. Pressure means, your mind is restless and not stable. As a result, nothing at all. Perform this mudra freely.

Conclusion

The Vishnu Mudra is a hand gesture used in yoga and meditation practices. It involves specific positioning of the fingers to stimulate energy flow and enhance certain qualities.