Surya Mudra: Benefits and Precautions

Do you feel like dragging yourself throughout the day, and feel tired even after resting? Running low on energy can make even simple tasks feel like a burden and affect your mood. Next time your energy levels are crashing, instead of reaching for coffee as a quick fix, try the simple and powerful Surya Mudra. It can naturally restore your energy levels and make you feel recharged.

What is a Mudra?

In simple terms, a mudra is a hand gesture. When you practice a mudra, it influences the flow of prana (life force energy) within your body. When you are sick or feeling drained, the flow of prana is likely blocked in your body. When prana flows freely, you feel emotionally balanced and physically active.

Benefits of Surya Mudra

Our thumb represents the fire element, and the ring finger represents the earth element. Performing this mudra activates the Agni (fire element) in the body. Which can provide many benefits if practiced correctly.

Weight Loss

Surya mudra works by increasing your metabolism. A slow metabolism is the primary cause of weight gain. When you activate your inner fire (agni), your body can easily break down food and burn calories. It also supports more efficient absorption of nutrients, solving digestive troubles like indigestion or bloating. Healthy metabolic function also benefits your cardiovascular system by reducing the bad cholesterol levels.

Helps with Depression

Feeling sluggish and slowed down are common symptoms of depression. From an ayurvedic perspective, depression is due to a blockage in the flow of prana (life force energy). This mudra unblocks the stagnant energy from your body, clearing the emotional and energetic systems. Free flow of prana can lift the clouds of negative and heavy emotions. Making you feel lighter and more active.

Regulates Body Temperature

When the fire element is increased in your body, it leads to better circulation. Providing relief from cold hands and feet. Regularly practicing the Surya mudra can make you more resilient during the winter months and provide relief from shivering or a runny nose.

Activates the Solar Plexus Chakra

Solar plexus chakra, also known as the Manipura chakra, is associated with willpower and identity. It is directly related to the fire element, and when out of balance, it can lead to feelings of self-doubt and powerlessness. Practicing this mudra can give you clarity and help you feel confident in your identity.

How to Practice Surya Mudra

To practice this mudra, you do not require any special preparations. You can practice it while you are meditating or simply sitting.

• Try to find a quiet place without any distractions.
• Sit in a posture you feel comfortable. You can just sit on a chair, or in a comfortable asana like sukhasana or lotus pose.
• Make sure that your back is straight and spine elongated.
• Place your hands on your knees with your palms facing upwards.
• Bend your ring finger and use your thumb to gently press it down.
• Keep the rest of the fingers stretched out and relaxed.
• Focus on taking deep and slow breaths.

Practicing this mudra every morning for 5-10 minutes helps to boost your energy levels and mood throughout the day.

When to Avoid Practicing Surya Mudra

Doing this mudra is very beneficial for increasing your energy levels and improving your mood. However, the increased heat in your body can lead to other complications. Therefore, you should practice this mudra with caution.

If you are a Pitta prominent person, then you should avoid doing this mudra. As it will aggravate the already dominant heat element in your body. And can lead to discomfort and other symptoms like headaches, dry skin, or acidity.

You should also avoid practicing this mudra if you are living in very hot weather. As it can lead to overheating and dehydration. Making you feel dizzy or restless.

Also Read:- Rudraksha Mala Benefits

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q1. When should I practice the Surya mudra?

The best time to practice this mudra is in the morning, as it will keep you energised throughout the day. It is advised not to practice this mudra at night, as it can interfere with your sleep.

Q2. How long does it take for Surya mudra to work?

Surya mudra can provide instant benefits like a better mood and increased energy. Other benefits, like weight loss or improved digestion, require regular practice.

Q3. Can I combine this mudra with my yoga practice?

You can perform this mudra along with Surya Namaskar or Kapalbharti pranayama to increase the fire element.

Q4. How long can I practice this mudra?

As a beginner, you can start by practicing this mudra for 5-10 minutes a day for 2-3 times. Avoid practicing this mudra right after eating.

Q5. Why is the ring finger used for this mudra?

The ring finger represents the earth element. And an excess of earthy energy can slow you down and make you feel lethargic. By pressing the ring finger with the thumb, we try to balance it with the energetic fiery energy.