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Order V · Seals of Breath and Mind
Shakti Mudra
शक्ति मुद्रा · śakti mudrā · Σφραγὶς τῆς Δυνάμεως
57
Ring and little fingers join while the others fold over the thumbs. The breath sinks into the pelvis and the body rests.
- Meaning
- Seal of Shakti, the Power of Life
- Tradition
- Yoga; dedicated to Shakti, goddess of life energy
- Hands
- Both hands, joined at ring and little fingers
- Placement
- Before the body. For sleep, a corner of the pillow may be held between the hands.
- Associations
- Pelvis; intestines.
- Level
- Beginner
Formation
- Place the thumbs in the palms.
- Join the ring fingers and the little fingers of both hands.
- Let the index and middle fingers bend loosely over the thumbs.
- Focus on the breath in the pelvic area and slow the exhalation somewhat.
Example Meditation
Form the seal before the body. Breathe into the pelvis and lengthen the exhalation a little. The seal calms and quiets and is a good accompaniment to meditation before sleep.
Effects
PhysicalΣῶμα
- Pelvis and sleep. It intensifies the breathing impulse in the lower chest and makes the breath perceptible in the pelvis; it relaxes the pelvic area and counteracts intestinal spasms and menstrual complaints.
EmotionalΘυμός
- Calming. It calms and helps one fall asleep.
IntellectualΝοῦς
- Quieting. The mind follows the breath downward and slows.
SoulΨυχή
- Life energy. Shakti is the goddess of the life energy; the seal gathers it in its seat.
AscentἈνάβασις
- Δύναμις. Power held at rest is power available for the ascent.
Finger Key
| Finger | Element | Right hand | Left hand |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thumb | Fire | in the palm | in the palm |
| Index | Air | bent loosely over the thumb | bent loosely over the thumb |
| Middle | Aether | bent loosely over the thumb | bent loosely over the thumb |
| Ring | Earth | meets the left ring finger | meets the right ring finger |
| Little | Water | meets the left little finger | meets the right little finger |
Cautions and Variants
Caution. If done too often or held too long it may lead to lethargy.
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.