In this article, we talk about What is Prithvi Mudra? How does it work? The word Prithvi Mudra is derived from the Sanskrit word “Prithvi” means Earth and “Mudra” means a symbolic hand gesture (seal).IT promote healing and spiritual balance within the body, Prithvi term used for the Earth element in Ayurveda. Otherwise known as ‘Earth Mudra’, Prithvi mudra can be used to balance this element, which resides primarily within tissues, such as skin, hair and bones.What is Yoga? Is Yoga Beneficial or not?
What is Prithvi Mudra? How does it work?
Prithvi mudra is a symbolic hand gesture or ‘seal’ used in yoga and Ayurveda to promote healing and spiritual balance within the body. Meaning “the vast one” in Sanskrit, Prithvi is also the term used for the Earth element in Ayurveda. Otherwise known as ‘Earth Mudra’, Prithvi mudra can be used to balance this element, which resides primarily within tissues, such as skin, hair and bones.
To practice Prithvi mudra, the tips of the ring fingers should be pressed to the tips of the thumbs on each hand, whilst extending the other fingers straight. This mudra can be practiced in any comfortable and stable seated meditation posture, such as padmasana (Lotus Pose) or sukhasana (Easy Pose), ideally for at least 30 to 45 minutes a day.What are Mudras? How do they work?
The Science of Prithvi Mudra
According to Hindu Shastra and Ayurveda the physical body is made up of five elements and the Imbalance in any one of these five elements is the root cause of illness and disease like Stress, Anxiety, headache, High or Low blood pressure, insomnia etc. These five elements are Earth, Air, Fire, Water and Space. By doing regular Hand Mudra with certain Yogasana or Pranayama anyone can Balance the effective element and thus we are both mentally and physically strong, confident and stable. Earth is a major part of the physical body, and so this element plays a vital role in health and wellbeing.
As we discuss about five elements In Prithvi mudra we used Ring finger which is symbolizes earth and the thumb symbolizes fire, so this gesture can also be used to bring balance between these two elements.
It is considered to be a powerful mudra, capable of healing many ailments, such as chronic fatigue, osteoporosis, weight loss, convalescence or paralysis, burning sensations throughout the body, ulcers, and nail, hair or skin issues.
Prithvi Mudra for Chakra Balance
When used as part of yoga practice, the Prithvi mudra is thought to stimulate the Muladhara chakra (root energy centre), governing an individual’s sense of stability, rootedness and security. This chakra is also associated with instincts and one’s primal nature. Practitioners may use this mudra during a chakra meditation, in which focusing on the Muladhara chakra’s red colour may help amplify the benefits of Prithvi mudra.
Prithvi mudra may also be combined with a pranayama exercise, such as three-part breath, in order to increase its effects. Although it is highly recommended to use this gesture during meditation, it may also be practiced in tadasana (Mountain Pose) or whilst sitting in a chair. Let us know how to perform Prithvi Mudra.
Method:
Step 1.: Select the calm and clean place where fresh air running around you.
Step 2.: Sit on your Yoga mat in a comfortable pose like “Sukhasana” “Siddhasana” or “Padmasana”
Step 3.: You can even sit in a chair, ensuring your back is straight and you are relaxed.
Step 4.: Close your eyes gently and take a few deep breaths to relax your body and mind. This helps prepare your body for the practice and enhances the benefits of the mudra.
Step 5.: Bring your hands to rest on your knees or hips, with your palms facing upwards. This initial position helps center your energy and prepare your hands for the mudra.
Step 6.: Touch the tip of your ring finger to the tip of your thumb on each hand. Ensure the other three fingers are straight but relaxed. Apply gentle pressure between your thumb and ring finger; a slight touch is sufficient and does not require hard pressing.
Note:
- Focus on Muladhtar Chakra (Root Plexus) while performing the Prithvi Mudra.
- Do not press your all fingers with each other, keep it in relaxed mode
- Nowadays people perform Hasta Mudra while walking, standing or sitting in front of the television.
Time:
5 to 15 minutes daily or according to your need.
Benefits:
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General Health Benefits
- Improves Digestion and Metabolism: Prithvi Mudra enhances digestion and metabolism, aiding in weight management and detoxification and preventing skin issues such as acne and inflammation.
- Strengthens Bones and Tissues: This mudra benefits bone health, helping to treat conditions like osteoporosis and fractures. It also strengthens muscles, tendons, and other tissues, reducing joint pain and inflammation.
- Enhances Skin Health: By balancing the earth element, Prithvi Mudra improves skin health, reducing dryness and promoting properties like pinkness, firmness, and nutrient supply essential for healthy skin.
- Promotes Hair Growth: Regular practice of Prithvi Mudra benefits hair growth, reduces hair fall, and prevents premature greying. It also helps eliminate brittle nails and dry, cracked skin.
- Regulates Body Temperature: This mudra helps maintain body temperature, reducing the occurrence of ulcers, boils, and fever by balancing the fire element represented by the thumb.
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Energy and Vitality
- Increases Energy Levels: Prithvi Mudra wards off weakness and laziness by increasing energy levels in the body. It stimulates the flow of prana from the base of the spine, maintaining a good balance within the body and reducing fatigue.
- Builds Endurance and Power: Practicing this mudra helps build endurance and improve physical and mental power, encouraging the ability to think clearly and make the right decisions.
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Mental and Emotional Benefits
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety: Prithvi Mudra has a calming effect on the mind, reducing stress and anxiety. It induces feelings of confidence, strength, safety, and security, particularly when practised with meditation.
- Promotes Groundedness and Stability: By stimulating the Muladhara chakra (root energy centre), this mudra helps individuals feel grounded, stable, and secure, encouraging humility and self-acceptance.
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Spiritual and Meditative Benefits
- Balances Chakras: Prithvi Mudra helps balance the earth element, which is crucial for the Muladhara chakra. This balance is essential for feeling mentally and physically strong and vital.
- Enhances Meditation Practice: When combined with meditation, Prithvi Mudra amplifies its benefits, helping to connect with the earth element and promoting a sense of grounding and spiritual balance.
- Incorporating Prithvi Mudra into your daily practice can yield numerous benefits for your overall well-being.
When Can We Practice Prithvi Mudra?
To maximize the benefits of Prithvi Mudra, it is essential to understand when and how to practice it. Here are some guidelines:
During Meditation: It is highly recommended that Prithvi Mudra be practised during meditation to enhance its benefits. This can be done in comfortable seated meditation postures like padmasana (Lotus Pose) or sukhasana (Easy Pose).
In Yoga Practice: This mudra can be incorporated into yoga practice, especially during pranayama exercises like the three-part breath, to increase its effects.
In Daily Activities: Prithvi Mudra can also be practised while sitting in a chair or tadasana (Mountain Pose), making it accessible during daily activities.
At Any Time of the Day: There is no specific time restriction for practising Prithvi Mudra; however, it is best to practice it when you are in a calm and relaxed state, ideally for at least 11 minutes to 45 minutes a day.
Who Can Perform Prithvi Mudra?
Prithvi Mudra is a gentle and versatile yoga gesture that can be practised by a wide range of individuals. It is particularly beneficial for:
Those experiencing hair loss, premature greying, or poor hair quality
People with joint pains, muscle stiffness, and low energy levels
Individuals struggling with unbalanced gait, nervousness, confusion, stress, or anxiety
Those seeking to regulate body weight by balancing the earth and fire elements
For people with nasal disorders, it helps increase the earth element in the body
Caution:
- Pregnant women, due to heightened sensitivity during pregnancy
- Those with a predominance of kapha dosha, as it can lead to excess mucus and weight gain
- People with breathing difficulties like asthma, unless guided by a skilled yoga instructor
- Individuals with injuries to the hands, arms, neck, or shoulders
- Those diagnosed with hypertension or heart conditions without consulting their doctor first
FAQs:
Q1: How much time should I spend doing Prithvi Mudra?
Ans.: Practice Prithvi Mudra for 30-40 minutes per sitting, ideally 2-3 times a day or in a single sitting, to experience its benefits.
Q2: Can we do Prithvi Mudra while lying down?
Ans.: No, it is recommended to practice Prithvi Mudra in a seated position, such as Padmasana, Sukhasana, or Vajrasana, for better focus and balance.
Q3: Does Prithvi Mudra really work?
Prithvi Mudra is believed to balance the earth and fire elements, improving various physical and mental health aspects, though its efficacy may vary individually.
Q4.: How many minutes should one practice Prithvi Mudra?
Ans.: Start with 4-5 minutes and gradually increase the duration to 30-40 minutes per session to experience the benefits of Prithvi Mudra.
Q5.: Can I do Prithvi Mudra daily?
Ans.: Yes, you can practice Prithvi Mudra daily, preferably in the early morning on an empty stomach, for optimal benefits without any known side effects.
Q6.: What are the benefits of Prithvi Mudra for the face?
Ans.: Prithvi Mudra helps reduce dry and cracked skin by balancing the earth element, which is connected to skin and nail health.
For more illustrations watch this video
https://youtu.be/zQOPrG5r_Wo?si=ESucwDMih-DLAiP_
