How to do Padma Mudrā (Lotus Mudra)

What are Mudrās?

Mudrās are symbolic hand positions or gestures used in yogic practices, ceremony, and ritual. These hand positions are commonly used in Hindu, Jain, and Buddhist practices as well as in some classical Indian dance. Mudrās are commonly used to direct the flow of prana, (conscious life force energy) in a particular way. Mudrās may be used in a yogic practice as a subtle but powerful way to shift one’s awareness, and to help one integrate a practice into the more subtle expressions of one’s consciousness. You have probably seen many mudrās used in sculpture or art in depictions of both deities and religious leaders across many cultures around the world: The Buddha is often depicted in dhyāna mudrā (concentration mudrā). Over the centuries, Jesus has been depicted using prana (vital) mudrā, and pṛthvī (earth/grounding) mudrā. In classical Hindu art you will often find deities such as Parvati in abhaya (fearlessness) mudrā in which a deity’s right palm is open towards the viewer, in a gesture that offers reassurance and dispels fear.

What is Padma Mudrā?

In yogic and tantric philosophy mudrās open and cleanse channels called nadis, which allow prana (life force energy) to move through the cakras with ease. Padma mudrā works specifically with the anāhata (heart) cakra. When we practice padma mudrā we make a conscious choice to cultivate a more loving attitude towards others, within the matrix of our own consciousness.

How to Practice Padma Mudrā (Lotus Mudra)

1. Find a comfortable seated or standing position, close your eyes and take a deep cleansing breath.

2. Exhale.

3. Inhale and bring hands gently into añjali mudra (prayer hands) in front of the heart center.

4. As you exhale, slowly and softly unfold the hands, keeping the base, thumb and baby finger touching, the same way a lotus flower would unfurl.

5. You are welcome to set an intention here or say a mantra, affirmation or a quiet prayer.