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Order IV · Seals of the Elements
Apana Mudra
अपान मुद्रा · apāna mudrā · Σφραγὶς τῆς Ἐνεργείας
Also: Apan Mudra, Energy Mudra
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Thumb, middle and ring fingers join. Apana, the downward breath, carries out what must leave.
- Meaning
- Seal of the Downward Breath
- Tradition
- Indian mudra therapy (Keshav Dev); the Energy Mudra
- Hands
- Both hands, same form
- Placement
- Hands resting on the thighs.
- Associations
- Wood element; liver and gallbladder.
- Level
- Beginner
Formation
- Join the thumb with the middle finger and the ring finger.
- Extend the index finger and the little finger.
- Form the same seal with the other hand.
Example Meditation
Rest the hands on the thighs in the seal. Breathe out fully and let what is spent leave the body with the exhalation. The seal supports elimination and serenity and makes room for new beginnings.
Effects
PhysicalΣῶμα
- Elimination. After Keshav Dev: it removes waste materials and toxins and eliminates urinary problems.
EmotionalΘυμός
- Serenity. It balances the mind: patience, serenity, confidence, inner balance and harmony.
IntellectualΝοῦς
- Vision. It gives the ability to develop a vision of the future.
SoulΨυχή
- Spring and new beginnings. It stimulates the wood element, liver and gallbladder, the energy of spring and of new beginnings.
AscentἈνάβασις
- Purified ascent. What descends and leaves makes room for what rises. Apana cleanses so prana can ascend.
Finger Key
| Finger | Element | Right hand |
|---|---|---|
| Thumb | Fire | joins the middle finger; joins the ring finger |
| Index | Air | extended |
| Middle | Aether | joins the thumb |
| Ring | Earth | joins the thumb |
| Little | Water | extended |
Recommended for Every Zevist Library
Gertrud Hirschi, Mudras: Yoga in Your Hands
The standard practical manual of the hand seals, with their indications and meditations. The Temple of Zeus recommends it as a purchase for every Zevist library, personal or communal.