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  • Udana Vayu Mudra: Steps & Benefits

    October 13, 2022 2 min read

    The Udana Vayu Mudra is a yogic hand gesture that is said to promote the upward flow of prana (energy) to the throat. In Ayurvedic tradition, this mudra is practiced to therapeutically improve functioning of the respiratory system and thyroid, and to help improve speech and communication.

    What does Udana Vayu mean?

    Translated from Sanskrit, Udana Vayu roughly means “that which carries upward.” Governing the throat chakra, it functions to “hold us up”, or hold us accountable, for speaking our truth and using our voices for self-expression and growth.

    Read more on Yoga Medicine for the Throat Chakra.

    What are the benefits of practicing Udana Vayu Mudra?

    In Ayurvedic tradition, each finger correlates to a different element; the thumb represents fire, the index is air, the middle finger indicates space and the little finger is water. It is said that by uniting certain fingers with each other and or the thumb, one can activate energy flow to serve a specific purpose.

    (Read our Intro to Mudras to learn more).

    The Udana Vayu Mudra is specifically said to help channel prana upwards to the chest and throat, which can help repair imbalances in the thyroid and respiratory system. According to Ayurvedic tradition, practicing Udana Vayu Mudra is also said to regulate blood flow to the brain which can help to access creativity, clear thinking and foster good communication.

    How do you practice Udana Vayu Mudra?

    Udana Mudra | Mukha Yoga

    How do you practice Udana Vayu Mudra?

    To practice Udana Vayu Mudra, begin in a comfortable seated position. You can use props such as blocks, blankets or bolsters to ensure that you can feel supported and can sit for some time.

    • Take a few deep breaths, beginning to invite length and depth to each inhale and exhale.
    • Place the back of your hands on your knees, palms facing up.
    • Then, bring the tips of your index, middle and ring fingers to touch the tip of your thumb and apply a gentle pressure.
    • Try to keep your little finger straight without forcing it.

    This is the Udana Vayu Mudra hand gesture. Enjoy at least a few minutes of meditation while practicing this gesture.

    Victoria Maybee l Mukha Yoga
    By Victoria Maybee; All Rights Reserved @2022

    Victoria Maybee l Mukha YogaBy Victoria Maybee; All Rights Reserved @2022


    Try one of our guided meditations as you practice the Udana Mudra.


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