Akash Mudra, also known as Akasha Vardhak Mudra (where “Vardhak” in Sanskrit means “to increase”), is a fundamental hand gesture in yoga and Ayurveda. This powerful yet simple technique involves specific finger positioning to stimulate the space element within the body. By harnessing the energy of the space element, Akash Mudra enhances both physical and mental well-being.
It is frequently practiced during meditation and Pranayama (breathing exercises) to enhance their effectiveness and deepen the practitioner’s spiritual experience.
Meaning of Akash Mudra
In Sanskrit, ‘Akash‘ means ‘space‘ or ‘ether,’ and ‘Mudra‘ means ‘gesture‘ or ‘seal.’ Therefore, Akash Mudra translates to the “Gesture of Space.” Also known as Shuni Mudra, it symbolizes patience and is used to balance the space element (Akasha) in the body, one of the five essential elements in yogic philosophy.
This mudra involves touching the middle finger, which represents the space element, to the thumb, which represents the fire element. By doing this, Akash Mudra helps address issues related to the space element, such as migraines and hearing loss. It also enhances the body’s space element, promoting mental clarity, detoxification, and heightened awareness.
In addition to physical benefits, Akash Mudra aids in achieving mental peace and balancing the mind and body, thus improving the practitioner’s spiritual well-being.
What ‘Akash’ Means in Akash Mudra?
In the context of Akash Mudra, ‘Akash’ represents the space or ether element that pervades everything. Increasing this element in the body promotes open-mindedness and emotional clarity. It helps transform negative traits such as anger and selfishness into positive qualities like compassion and selflessness.
Practicing Akash Mudra is believed to generate a calming blue energy that activates the Vishuddha Chakra (Throat Chakra). This activation facilitates the connection between individual consciousness (Atma or soul) and universal consciousness (Paramatma or the divine essence), fostering a deeper sense of inner peace and spiritual unity.
How to Do the Akash Mudra (Space Gesture)
- Sit comfortably in a stable posture like Vajrasana, Sukhasana, or Padmasana.
- Keep your back, neck, and head aligned in a straight line.
- Place the backs of your hands on your knees, with palms facing upward.
- Fold the middle finger of each hand and touch it to the tip of the thumb.
- Extend the other fingers fully and relax them.
- Close your eyes and focus on the space behind them, visualizing it filled with white or yellow light.
- Breathe deeply and slowly, inhaling through your nose and exhaling completely.
- Practice for 30-40 minutes daily, either in one stretch or divided into multiple sessions.
Time & Duration
- Ideal Time: Practice Akash Mudra between 4 am and 6 am for optimal results. If this is not possible, you can also practice it in the evening.
- Duration: Aim to practice for 30 to 45 minutes daily. This can be divided into two or three sessions of 10 to 15 minutes each, based on your convenience and schedule.
Precautions
- Individuals with Vata (wind) imbalance should practice Akash Mudra with patience and care.
- Avoid applying excessive pressure when touching your fingers together. Light contact is sufficient and will prevent discomfort.
- Minimize distractions by avoiding electronic gadgets, tight clothing, and practicing in a well-ventilated space.
- Don’t rush to become an expert. Practice slowly and steadily to avoid exhaustion and ensure gradual improvement.
Akash Mudra is generally safe and beneficial for most people, with no significant side effects reported. As long as it is practiced correctly and with the appropriate precautions, it typically does not cause any adverse effects.
Benefits of Akash Mudra
1. Relieve the Condition of Migraine: Lack of space element in our body results in the condition of migraine. According to a study , yoga practices like mediation with Akash mudra positively affects the Agya chakra (hypothalamic-cerebral system of the brain).
This further improves the life quality of patients by improving the symptoms. Ultimately, relieve the migraine problem.
2. Reduces Sinusitis Pain : Sinusitis and its associated pain are quite common, affecting approximately one in eight people worldwide.
Acupressure points related to the sinuses are located in the middle finger. Gently touching these points with Akash Mudra provides significant relief from sinusitis pain.
3. Improve Hearing Loss : Exposure to loud sounds and the aging process can diminish the ability of nerve cells in the cochlea that transmit sound signals to the brain. This leads to inefficient transmission of electrical signals and hearing loss.
However, Akash Mudra stimulates the nerve centers involved in hearing, improving their function and enhancing overall hearing ability.
4. Activates Throat Chakra : ssues such as jaw pain, shoulder pain, thyroid dysfunction, neck pain, or hearing problems often stem from an imbalanced throat chakra.
Practicing Akash Mudra directs the flow of prana through the nadis to the throat chakra. Regular practice of this mudra activates and balances the throat chakra, helping to alleviate these issues
5. Overcome Calcium Deficiency: A lack of calcium in the blood can lead to issues such as tooth decay, brittle bones, hypocalcemia, osteoporosis, and involuntary shivering.
The middle finger has acupressure points linked to the parathyroid glands, which secrete parathyroid hormone (PTH). Practicing Akash Mudra stimulates these pressure points, which, in conjunction with calcium and vitamin D, helps regulate blood calcium levels and address calcium deficiency.
Conclusion
Akash Mudra is a powerful practice that offers numerous benefits for the mind and body. By integrating this mudra into your daily routine, you can enhance your overall well-being, improve your meditation practice, and address various physical ailments. Embrace the Gesture of Space and unlock a new level of harmony and balance in your life.
