`Mudra` therapy to energize the body

Mudra therapy, consisting of various symbolic, ritualistic gestures and movements works wonders for both mind and body.

Mudra therapy
In the wake of increasing stress levels and cut-throat competition, the need to practise meditation techniques and yoga and going for alternative therapy sessions has become essential. No wonder, there are a few therapies like Reiki healing sessions, Acupressure, Reflexology, Aroma therapy, among others, which are gaining popularity.  But then another unique and age-old effective therapy which needs to be adopted as an intrinsic part of our lives is the Mudra therapy. 
Says Dr. Indu Arora, an accomplished international speaker and master yoga teacher, says, "The root from which the word 'Mudra' is derived is 'Mud' which means 'to be happy' or 'to impart bliss'. There are totally eight different types of it, namely, Hasta (Hand) Mudras, Kaya (Body) Mudras, Chakshu (Eye) Mudras, Mukha (Face) Mudras, Jivha (Tongue) Mudras, Griva (Neck) Mudras, Pada (Foot) Mudras and Sparsh (Touch) Mudras. Each has its own benefits which can be experienced if practised with total awareness. 
With the power of Mudras, the chakras, for instance, are freed from obstructions and congestion; the aura is cleansed of negative effluvia, and the subconscious mind is purged of its negative contents. The main advantage of Mudras is that they can be practised any time of the day at any place barring a few like Surya Mudra, Kaya Mudra, Simha Mudra, which should be done only on empty stomach. Most of them should preferably be practised in sitting position with spine straight but they could also be done in standing, lying down or walking if instructed by the therapist or teacher to do so.
Besides Asanas, Mudras are often employed along with yogic meditation to energize the chakras and calm the mind. Dr. Indu who strongly believes in the philosophy "Nothing has the greatest Power to heal, but SELF."         
For working professionals, Dr. Indu strongly recommends 'Pran Mudra' which acts like an energy booster and helps in restoring the metabolism of the body.  Another Mudra which increases circulation of Pranic energy is 'Apaan Vayu Mudra'.
Although there are lots of resources out there like internet, magazines, TV, etc., from where Mudras can be learnt, it's always recommended to learn it under the guidance of an expert.

--NIVEDITHA JAIN