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Apana Vayu Mudra

अपान वायु मुद्रा

Also known as: Mrit-Sanjeevani Mudra (Life-saving Mudra), Hridaya Mudra

Therapeutic/AyurvedicEarthFireAirSpace

Etymology

Apana Vayu refers to the subdivision of prana governing heart and circulation

Finger Position

Index finger at thumb base, middle and ring finger tips touch thumb tip

Duration

3-10 minutes, can be used as needed for heart support

Difficulty

Beginner

Associated Chakras

Muladhara(Root)

Anahata(Heart)

Bija Mantra: HRIDAYAM OM

Highlighted fingers indicate active contact points

MGN Notation

HAND(RIGHT)
  PALM(UP)
  WRIST(STRAIGHT)
  T: STRAIGHT, TOUCH(2.tip), TOUCH(3.tip)
  1: BENT, TOUCH(T.base)
  2: STRAIGHT, TOUCH(T.tip)
  3: STRAIGHT, TOUCH(T.tip)
  4: STRAIGHT
  FINGERS(TOGETHER)

Instructions

This cardiovascular support gesture activates heart regulation through complex finger positioning. Research on heart rate variability shows that specific practices can improve cardiac coherence and autonomic balance by 20-35% (McGrady & Moss, 2013). Formation: Touch thumb tip to index and middle fingertips simultaneously while folding ring finger to palm. Keep little finger extended naturally. Create gentle three-point contact. CONTRAINDICATIONS: Those with serious heart conditions should prac...

Quick Start Checklist

1Complex formation: index at thumb base; middle and ring to thumb tip (Apana Vayu)
2Keep little finger extended; both hands mirror
3Breathe softly into heart area
4Hold 3-10 minutes for heart support

Benefits

Physical

•Supports cardiovascular health
•regulates circulation
•strengthens heart. Provides relief from chest pain
•palpitations

Mental

•Profound calming effect on nervous system
•reduces anxiety
•fear
•worry

Spiritual

Traditional texts describe this as "supporting cardiovascular function and emotional balance" — their terms for how this complex finger arrangement activates the parasympathetic nervous system's cardiac regulation functions. Practitioners often report that this specific hand formation helps develop what ancient sources called "heart-healing consciousness" — a calm, centered state that can support

Clinical Applications

Anxiety & Stress ManagementCardiovascular HealthChronic Pain Management

Guided Practice

Touch your thumb tip to your index and middle finger tips simultaneously while folding your ring finger down to touch your palm. Keep your little finger naturally extended. Rest hands on your knees. This heart-supporting formation balances air and space elements while strengthening cardiovascular function. Feel the three-finger contact creating gentle activation while the folded ring finger groun

Symbolism

Traditional Ayurvedic physicians called this the 'Mrityunjaya Mudra' (death-conquering gesture) because of its therapeutic effects on heart conditions. Ancient medical texts describe this specific finger combination as harmonizing the downward-flowing life force (Apana Vayu) while balancing all five