Also known as Mudras, Yoga symbols may change depending on the type of Yoga you want to practice. Mudras are merely symbols or gestures that are formed with the hands, which according to ancient beliefs can help us to establish connections between our spiritual and physical bodies.
 
It is for sure that you have seen or heard some of these mudras in a conventional chat. One of the most popular is Namaste or Namaskar, widely used in the Hindu religion and even among the Nepalese, and which is not that different from the symbol of prayer in the Christian religion. This mudra is known as Anjali Mudra and is formed by putting the palms of the hands together up to the chest height, representing the union.
 
In Hatha Yoga for example, the mudras are used to channel energy and this is achieved through different breathing exercises and some Asanas or postures. The Anjali Mudra is usually performed at the beginning and at the end of the Sun Salutation. In general, the hands represent and express the beauty of each mudra.
 
According to the Yogic practitioners, each mudra can vary; however, all are necessary to obtain a balance in your body, representing the unity of each person and allowing the contemplation of God or any other supreme universal energy that you believe in.
 
If we keep talking about all the existing mudras in the different types of Yoga, the truth is that the will never end. If you have already decided on the type of Yoga you are going to practice or are already practicing any, is better to approach your instructor who will guide you through your Yoga path in a much more complete way, and will provide you important information about the symbols of Yoga.
 
Namaste!
 
Photo by: Nomadic Lass.