Why I love beginning each class or practice with a Mudra.

Mudras are hand gestures said to affect the workings of our body and mind. Sitting quietly with a Mudra, you prepare your mind and body for your yoga practice. In Sanskrit, the word Yoga is often translated as to “tie, yoke, or bind our body and mind.” Preparing by doing a Mudra helps you prepare for a yoga practice by uniting your mind and body.

Our brains are intimately aware of what our hands are doing. Our hands do many intricate and important actions: prepare a meal, write, play an instrument, feed a baby, interact with a computer, tie our shoes , and much more.

When you hold your hand in a Mudra, the mind stills. Focusing your mind inward helps you listen to your body. Within stillness, you become aware of your mind and breathing. This increases awareness, your enjoyment of asana practice and helps you feel when discomfort arises. That awareness also allows you to observe the distraction in your mind.