Abhaya Mudra |
Definition of Abhaya Mudra:
- Abhaya mudra is a sacred hand gesture or ‘seal’ used during yoga and meditation practice as a means of channeling the flow of vital life force energy known as prana. This gesture is used to dispel fear and develop courage, highlighted by the name Abhaya which is Sanskrit for "fearlessness."
- Abhaya mudra is symbolic of safety, protection, peace, and reassurance, and can be called upon during challenging times.
- Abhaya mudra is an hasta mudra, meaning it is practiced using the hands. This gesture is performed with the right handheld upright at shoulder height, palm open, and facing forwards.
- It is most often practiced using only the right hand, but some images of the walking Buddha depict this mudra with both hands at shoulder height and the palms facing out.
- In Mahayana Buddhism, it is often paired with another mudra using the left hand. In Japan, the abhaya mudra may be seen with the middle finger slightly projected forward, symbolic of the Shingon. It should be practiced daily for up to 30 minutes for maximum benefits. Abhaya Mudra
In yoga, abhaya mudra can be used during meditation in any stable seated posture such as padmasana (lotus pose) or virasana (hero pose). It is sometimes practiced in a modification of Virabhadrasana II (warrior II), in which the practitioner raises the front hand into abhaya mudra to display humility and strength. This mudra can be called upon as a means of overcoming fears or phobias, and to provide a sense of internal protection.