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Order IV · Seals of the Elements
Vayu Mudra
वायु मुद्रा · vāyu mudrā · Σφραγὶς τοῦ Ἀνέμου
Also: Wind Mudra
41
The finger of air is folded under the thumb. Excess wind in the body is calmed.
- Meaning
- Seal of the Wind
- Tradition
- Indian mudra therapy (Keshav Dev)
- Hands
- Both hands, same form
- Placement
- Hands resting on the thighs.
- Associations
- Air element (index finger).
- Level
- Beginner
Formation
- Bend the index finger so its tip touches the ball of the thumb.
- Press the thumb lightly onto the index finger.
- Extend the other fingers in a relaxed way.
- Form the same seal with the other hand.
Example Meditation
Rest the hands on the thighs in the seal. Breathe slowly and evenly and let restlessness settle with each exhalation. The seal calms the element of air in the body and steadies inner agitation.
Effects
PhysicalΣῶμα
- Wind and fullness. It prevents flatulence and fullness in all parts of the body. Ayurveda counts 51 kinds of wind, among them gout, sciatica, rheumatism and trembling of the hands, throat and head.
- Speed. Used early in an outbreak, improvement comes quickly.
EmotionalΘυμός
- Inner agitation. Inner tension and agitation are among its causes.
IntellectualΝοῦς
- Rhythm. A disturbed breathing rhythm is another cause; the seal restores its order.
SoulΨυχή
- Calmed air. Air in excess scatters the person; the seal gathers it.
AscentἈνάβασις
- Pneuma ordered. The wind becomes pneuma, breath under order, which can carry the soul instead of dispersing it.
Finger Key
| Finger | Element | Right hand |
|---|---|---|
| Thumb | Fire | joins the index finger |
| Index | Air | rests on the ball of the thumb; joins the thumb |
| Middle | Aether | extended |
| Ring | Earth | extended |
| Little | Water | extended |
Cautions and Variants
Caution. Discontinue as soon as the complaint disappears. For chronic complaints Prana Mudra is advised instead.
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.