Naga Mudra is a Mudra for supernatural power performed to increase confidence and awareness. Learn how to perform this pose with our easy step-by-step guide.
Definition – What is Naga Mudra and its Meaning, References, and Mythology?
Naga Mudra is a type of Hasta Mudra hand gesture/seal.
If we break the word Naga Mudra into two, we will better understand its meaning.
Naga – Cobra/Snake or Snake God.
Mudra – Hand gesture/seal.
As we know, Snakes are so flexible and have so much strength and power. They are so flexible, yet they carry so much power within themselves.
According to Hindu mythology snake god was called Naga. Naga stands for supernatural power. The element of this Mudra is fire. A snake carries neurotoxins which are believed to be associated with the Agni element or the fire element. This Mudra is linked with the Power which Nag God possesses. This Mudra also makes you more potent.
Humanity has despised snakes for years, but there is much to learn from them. Snakes do not want to interfere with humans; they stay quiet, wait for the perfect time, and do not attack until you harass or threaten them. So, just like that, we should mind our work. We should seek peace, but if there are times when we need to showcase our power, we should utilize it.
This Mudra is also linked with wisdom and deep knowledge. Snakes have very weak eyesight they cannot see clearly, but they have evolved over the years to overcome such challenges. They use their tongues to measure the temperature of the surroundings, and through that, they figure out the location of their enemies. So, if you practice this Mudra, it will help you to gain knowledge and wisdom. The crux of the story is when you practice it, it helps make you more connected to the natural energy and gain more understanding of mother nature.
This is one of the Mudras in which both hands have a different role. This Mudra helps to grow us spiritually as well.
Alternate Names of Naga Mudra
Sarpa Mudra, The Mudra of deeper insight.
How to do Naga Mudra?
- This Mudra does require you to perform while you are seated in any meditative posture as this Mudra requires more attention. However, one can practice it while standing in Mountain Pose (also known as Samisthiti).
- It is believed that to maximize the benefits of this Mudra, you should practice it during meditation. If done right during the meditation practice, it will help you overcome your bad traits, fears, etc., and will give you the strength and power of the Snake god Naga.
- Rest both of your hands comfortably on your knee. Palms facing upward towards the sky.
- Keep all the fingers and thumb extended.
- Now, slowly and gently bring your hands in Namaskar Mudra close to the heart.
- Gently part your hands and turn both of your palms towards the heart.
- Keep all the fingers extended. Now, cross your palms so the left one should be placed over the right one.
- Now, cross your right thumb over the left palm, and then the left thumb should cross the right thumb. It would seem like both of the hands are grabbing one another a little.
- Keep your neck and spine comfortably straight.
- Completely close your eyes.
- Practice deep breathing or Ujjayi breathing.
- You can perform this Mudra while practicing different forms of meditation and Pranayama.
Naga Mudra Benefits
- It helps to increase our inner strength, power, and energy.
- It also helps to deal with everyday problems.
- It can help to relieve stress and anxiety.
- It helps to gain more knowledge and wisdom.
- It releases negative energies from the mind and body.
- If you are suffering from issues related to the womb, urination, or prostate, practicing it will help.
- It helps to grow mentally, physically as well as spiritually.
- It helps to remove the problems that are associated with the Fire element.
Naga Mudra Precautions and Contraindications
- Place your thumb at the appropriate point to maximize the benefits.
- Practice it during meditation to gain maximum benefits.
- Make sure to take plenty of rest and sleep well.
When and How long to do Naga Mudra?
- This Mudra can be practiced when you feel that you want to clean your internal body.
- This Mudra can be practiced if you feel that you lack internal power.
- If you want to grow spiritually.
- If you want to attain more knowledge and wisdom.
- You can practice this if you want to balance the fire element.
Morning is the ideal time to do any yoga or Mudra. In the morning, at this time during the daytime, our brain is at its best. So, you are more likely to be able to concentrate easily. Therefore, you should practice this Mudra from 4 am and 6 am to get the most effective outcomes.
If you are having difficulty with this during the morning, you can do this Mudra later in the evening too.
Practicing this Mudra for a minimum of 20-40 minutes daily is recommended. Whether you wish to complete it in one stretch or two threes that last between 10 and 15 minutes, it’s up to you. Based on research, the best way to practice an exercise for at least 20 minutes is to get the best benefits of that particular Mudra.
Breathing in Naga Mudra
There are different types of breathing we can practice with this Mudra:
- It would be best if you practiced deep breaths and Ujjayi breathing so that you will be able to increase your inner strength and power.
Visualization in Naga Mudra
- Visualize you are lying down, and grass surrounds you.
- You are connected to the soul.
- Experience the warmness that lies in the core of Mother Earth.
- Witness the Fire element within the Earth’s element.
- Let your body absorb these energies.
Affirmation in Naga Mudra
While practicing this, Keep a positive intention. Start with, “I do not seek any revenge. I do not act hastily. I maintain my composure because I am confident in my powers.”
Conclusion
The Naga mudra is a great way to reconnect with your spiritual side and promote healing within the body. If you’re interested in learning more about mudras and how to use them effectively, check out our Mudras Certification Course. This comprehensive course covers 108 mudras and their meanings, allowing you to choose the perfect one for your needs.
