Uttarabodhi Mudra
Fingers interlaced, both index fingers extended and pressed together pointing upward, both thumbs pointing down. A vertical line drawn through the body. Practised for clarity when a decision will not come.
Meaning of the name
The seal of highest awakening. Uttara-bodhi: the enlightenment that is above, the insight that arrives rather than being constructed.
How to practise
- 1
Interlace the fingers of both hands.
- 2
Extend both index fingers and press them together, pointing straight up.
- 3
Point both thumbs straight down, crossed or touching.
- 4
Hold the hands at the level of the solar plexus, index fingers rising toward the chin.
- 5
Breathe deeply and evenly for ten to fifteen breaths.
Benefits
- Sharpens clarity and helps a stalled decision resolve
- Charges the body quickly; useful when tired but needing to continue
- Improves posture by lengthening the whole front of the torso
- Calms nervousness before an important moment
- Traditionally said to remove fear and inspire confidence in new ventures
What happens in the nervous system
Pressing the two index fingers together requires fine bilateral coordination, and holding the arms lifted keeps the thoracic spine extended. Both are mildly arousing rather than calming — which is the point. This is one of the few mudras intended to wake you up rather than settle you down.
Related practices
KSN Yoga & Healing