Mudra
Apana Mudra
Apāna Mudrāअपान मुद्रा· ah-PAH-nah MOO-drahgesture of apana (the downward, eliminating energy)
Apana Mudra joins the tips of the thumb, middle and ring fingers, with the index and little fingers extended. It is traditionally associated with apana — the body's downward, cleansing energy — and practised to support digestion and a sense of release.
Step by step
- 1
Sit comfortably
Sit tall, hands resting on the thighs or knees.
- 2
Join three fingertips
Touch the tips of the thumb, middle and ring fingers together.
- 3
Extend index and little
Keep the index and little fingers gently extended.
- 4
Hold and breathe
Rest here and breathe slowly, sensing a quality of grounding and release.
Benefits
- Traditionally supports digestion and elimination
- Associated with grounding and release
- A calming gesture for meditation
- Encourages slow, steady breathing
About this practice
Apana is the downward-flowing vital energy governing elimination and release. Apana Mudra is traditionally used to encourage that downward, cleansing movement — a grounding gesture often practised for digestive comfort.
Related practices
Frequently asked questions
- What is Apana Mudra good for?
- It's traditionally associated with apana, the body's downward, eliminating energy, and practised to support digestion and a sense of grounding and release. Treat it as a supportive practice, not a medical remedy.
- When should I practise Apana Mudra?
- It can be practised during seated meditation or quietly at any time. Keep the gesture gentle and the breath slow.
References
- Gheranda Samhita, Chapter 3 (Mudras) · Classical text — Classical Hatha source on yogic mudras.