Water is our lifeline, and the monsoon season that delivers this “juice of life” is one that almost every person looks forward to. Of course, the monsoon also spells trouble. Viral ailments become abundant and exercising at daybreak outside with plentiful fresh air becomes scarce. Both can take a toll on our health and strength. With Covid on the rise again, one needs to boost our body's immune system. Fortunately, there is a simple solution to do so—apart from eating balanced meals.
The Rudra mudra is known to influence elements of fire and earth within the body. Thus, increasing the overall strength of the body. Of the five metaphysical elements--earth, wind, fire, water, and sky--the most dominant element in the human body is earth, the source of strength. By figuratively increasing the earth element in the body with the practice of this mudra, one can stay healthy, strong, and energetic.
In ayurvedic theory, the Rudra mudra is the ruler of the third chakra (or the fire centre) in our body. As it rules the fire centre in the body, the practice of this mudra develops inner strength and is also called 'the gesture of strength'. This mudra is performed by many yogis to stimulate the solar plexus and to gain strength and self-control.
Since the mudra is associated with the third chakra, you can include other meditation work focused on the third chakra to deepen your practice. Visualise the colour yellow and chant the monosyllable 'Bija mantra' (the word Rahm) for the solar plexus. You can also listen to a third chakra stimulating sound frequency during meditation.
If you need to strengthen your will or sense of self, Rudra mudra will help by stimulating your inner power centre. Used alone or in conjunction with other practices, it's a powerful way to foster personal growth.
How to practice
To perform Rudra mudra, take a comfortable seated position, then touch the tips of the ring and index fingers to the top of the thumb, while the middle and little fingers extend comfortably.
This mudra is a combination of Gyan Mudra, and Prithivi Mudra (covered in previous articles) and thereby gives benefits of these mudras combined which means - it covers a wide range of physical and mental benefits.
There is no ideal time to perform Rudra Mudra, but it is always better to perform it in the morning time.
You can concentrate better with a fresh mind in the morning.
Duration
You should perform Rudra Mudra for more than 20 minutes a day. You can also do it six times a day for five minutes.
Benefits
Improves mental clarity
Helps concentration
Eases tension
Improves circulation and respiration
Reduces feelings of dizziness and vertigo
It removes extreme weakness and exhaustion
Promotes better eating habits
Energises the body
Promotes empowerment
Is therapeutic for low blood pressure
Improves eyesight
It is useful for hernia as well
