Varada Mudra, an ancient hand gesture, holds profound significance in Hinduism, Jainism, and Buddhism. Found in numerous mythological depictions and statues, this Mudra, also known as the "Favorable Mudra" or the Mudra of granting wishes/mercy, is renowned across Asia.
Varada Mudra represents sincerity, compassion, and the art of forgiveness. By practicing this Mudra, individuals cultivate these qualities and become more compassionate towards life. It emphasizes the importance of forgiveness, as forgiving others without them even realizing it is considered the embodiment of true compassion.
Allowing yourself to tap into this energy will release tension and create space for your mind to be focused on your own desires and dreams. You will be able to live a more intentional life once you let go of anything you may not even remember you are holding on to.
To practice the Varada Mudra and harness its transformative power, follow these steps:
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Find a Comfortable Posture: Begin sitting comfortably on the ground. Ensure your neck and spine are comfortably straight and in line with each other, allowing for optimal energy flow.
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Palms Facing Upward: Place both palms comfortably on your knees, facing upward towards the sky. This gesture symbolizes receptivity to blessings and positive energy.
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Relax and Close Your Eyes: Gently close your eyes to turn your focus inward and create a space of calmness and introspection.
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Hand Placement: Gradually lower all the fingers of your right hand, pointing them towards the ground, while keeping your palm facing forward. Simultaneously, rest your left hand on your knee or lap, maintaining a relaxed position.
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Extend Your Fingers: Ensure all your fingers on the right hand are comfortably extended, embracing a sense of openness and receptivity.
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Breath Awareness: Inhale slowly and exhale gently, maintaining awareness of your breath. Allow your breath to become steady and natural, bringing a sense of relaxation and tranquility to your body and mind.
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Witness Your Inner Self: As you continue to breathe rhythmically, direct your attention towards your inner self. Observe any thoughts, emotions, or sensations that arise without judgment, simply allowing them to pass by.
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Incorporate Pranayama: For a deeper experience, consider combining the Varada Mudra practice with specific Pranayama techniques such as Bhramari Pranayama. The harmonious pairing of breath and Mudra can enhance your practice and promote a greater sense of well-being.
The Varada Mudra offers a multitude of benefits to those who incorporate it into their daily practice:
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Sincerity and Compassion: This Mudra helps cultivate sincerity and compassion. By embracing these qualities, practitioners enhance their relationships and bring positivity into every aspect of their lives.
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Wish Fulfillment: The Varada Mudra is renowned for granting wishes and fostering an environment conducive to achieving one's goals and aspirations. Through focused meditation and sincere practice, practitioners can manifest their desires and invite positive opportunities into their lives.
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Positive Transformation: Regular practice of the Varada Mudra encourages positive changes in attitude and behavior. Generosity, patience, and morality naturally emerge as practitioners deepen their connection to this Mudra. It enables individuals to embody forgiveness, a powerful virtue emphasized in Buddhism, where the art of forgiving others without them realizing it becomes an act of genuine compassion.
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Concentration Enhancement: The Varada Mudra serves as a powerful tool to enhance concentration and focus. By directing attention to the Mudra and maintaining a steady breath, practitioners cultivate a calm and centered state of mind, enabling them to navigate challenges with clarity and equanimity.
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Calming the Money Mind: The Varada Mudra practice also helps soothe the restless mind often preoccupied with financial worries. By embracing this Mudra, individuals can find inner peace and contentment, allowing them to release attachment to monetary concerns and cultivate a more balanced perspective on wealth.
While the Varada Mudra practice offers numerous benefits, it is essential to keep these precautions in mind before practicing consistently:
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Long-term Depression: Individuals experiencing long-term depression should approach the practice with caution. If you fall into this category, consult a healthcare professional or an experienced yoga instructor before incorporating the Varada Mudra into your routine.
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Gentle Approach: Be gentle with your fingers and yourself during the practice. Avoid straining or exerting excessive force on your hands or fingers. Remember, the goal is to be comfortable throughout the practice.
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Gradual Progression: Maintain a straight spine throughout the practice but progress gradually if you find it challenging. Gradual progression allows the body to adjust and adapt to the practice, ensuring a safe and sustainable journey.
How long should you practice?
- The best time to practice is in the morning as soon as you wake up. If that will take some getting used to, then you can practice at any time of day at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after eating food. A full stomach makes it hard to breath properly, and it is good to give time after a session to absorb the effects before eating.
- Practice for 10-20 minutes a day for at least 7 days in a row. Then take account of how your are feeling and whether you need to continue for another 7 days.
- Set the intention to let go of all emotions towards others that burden you and to allow space for even more compassion. This will invite new and good fortune into your life.
Get guidance for your journey
If you would like assistance in getting starting, maintaining consistency, or deepening your practice with specific mudras please feel free to book a 1:1 consultation or join our group classes.
Another trusted resource:
https://www.siddhiyoga.com/