Weight loss

        Yoga mudras for weight loss

Yoga has traditionally been practiced as a way to keep the body and mind healthy. The breathing techniques taught by yoga helps to improve concentration and mindfulness. While yoga has evolved through the years, it remains true to Ayurveda at its core.

Yoga considers the five elements, namely – ‘Jal’ (Water), ‘Prithvi’ (Earth), ‘Akash’ (Space), ‘Vayu’ (Air), and ‘Agni’ (Fire), to be the core focus points in our body. Any imbalance caused by these elements results in illnesses or poor health in general. Yoga mudras help to restore the balance between these elements and prepare the body to fight against any future illnesses.

Here are some of the most effective yoga mudras that have been practiced and passed on from generations.

These mudras are known to assist in healing chronic diseases as well as improve the overall mental health of a person. These mudras are known to boost the weight loss process and help a person achieve good health and fitness.

 

1. Surya-Agni mudra

Surya-agni mudra

The Surya Mudra or the Agni Mudra, as its is known traditionally, represents the fire element. Performing this mudra activates the fire energy in the body, and allows you to restore the fire balance. Doing the mudras allow the fingers to form connections and facilitate the flow of energy in the body.

In the weight loss process, several people find difficulty in reducing fat due to poor digestive health. The fire element present in the Surya mudra is known to improve digestion by boosting the metabolism in the body. Regular practice can significantly aid in fat loss.

You can perform the Surya mudra at the comfort of your own home. First, sit upright with the back straight. Move the ring finger towards the palm of the hand and join it with the thumb. Place your hands on your thighs and knees and remain seated in this position.

In the meantime, you can perform breathing techniques or meditation. The Surya mudra is to be performed for 45 minutes each day, and with 15-minute intervals between each time. The Surya mudra yields more benefits when practiced early in the day. 

2. Kapha-Nashak Mudra

Kapha-nasak mudra

The three temperaments of the body are known as Vayu, Kapha, and Pitta. The Kapha and Pitta elements represent fire and earth, respectively, whereas Vayu represents air. The Pitta element in the body represents fire and is known to speed up the metabolism in the body. The Kapha element represents earth, too much of which could indicate excess weight in the body.

The Kapha-Nashak mudra aims to remove the excess of the Kapha element from the body and restore the balance amongst all other elements. The Kapha-Nashak mudra improves the functioning of the digestive system by boosting metabolic activity through the generation of fire.  

To perform the Kapha-Nashak mudra, you will need to sit in a comfortable position with your eyes closed. Bend the ring finger and the little finger towards the palm, and join them with the thumb. Exert pressure as long as it is comfortable for you and remain in this position.

You will need to practice this mudra for 30-45 minutes every day, with repetitions of 15 minutes to feel the complete benefits of the mudra.

3. Ling mudra

Ling mudra

The Linga mudra is also often known as Lord Shiva’s mudra. Yoga is intertwined in Hindu and Buddhist religions in an immense manner, with many believing that the Gods practiced yoga and meditation. 

The Linga mudra is an effective mudra that works to channelize inner conflicts.

The Linga mudra symbolizes the victory of positivity over negativity. Practicing this mudra awakens the fire in the body, which in turn produces energy that can revitalize the organs. The digestive system is activated, and energy flows through it in order to balance out any gut issues. Linga mudra helps in weight loss by improving the body’s metabolism. The heat generated with this mudra obstructs the growth of a toxic substance called ‘Ama,’ which is known to accumulate fat in the body. 

To perform the Linga mudra, you will need to first sit in a comfortable position with the legs crossed. Keep your eyes closed to improve concentration and avoid distractions. Next, interlock the fingers of both hands, with the palms pressed against each other. Remember to keep the Left thumbs upright.

It is advisable to practice this mudra for 20-30 minutes each day. Increasing the pressure against the palms helps to generate more heat, thereby strengthening the effect of this mudra.