Garuḍa Mudra (Gah-roo-dha) - Gesture of the Eagle
Garuda Mudra, with its dynamic nature and balancing properties, can be particularly beneficial for invigorating practices and for those seeking a boost in energy and focus.
Instructions
- Sit or stand in a comfortable position.
- Place your left hand on top of the right in front of your chest, palms facing the heart.
- Interlock the thumbs and spread the fingers to resemble the wings of a bird.
- Hold this position while keeping the rest of your body relaxed.
- The elbows can be slightly bent, and the chest can be gently opened.
Benefits
- Stimulates circulation and energy flow in the body.
- Enhances focus and concentration.
- Aids in balancing and harmonizing the body's energies.
- Promotes respiratory efficiency.
- Can help in releasing emotional and energetic blockages.
When to Practice
- During meditation for energy balancing.
- In moments of feeling sluggish or low energy.
- When seeking to improve focus and mental clarity.
- Before or during physical activities to enhance vitality.
Duration: 5-10 minutes
Best Time of Day: Midday
Contraindications
If you have thyroid issues monitor hormone levels while performing Garuda mudra
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Personal Insights
Ever been in a class when the teacher cues "hook your thumbs"? Well, this is that mudra.
Our hands take the shape of an eagle spreading its wings and in the same vein we ourselves are spreading our own wings. Lifting ourselves higher and supporting health in our upper chakras.
I enjoy integrating Garuda mudra with a flow. Hooking thumbs from a forward fold and flying my hands overhead, unhooking to float the hands extended back down to a forward fold. Like a great eagle flapping its wings and flying higher and away.