Mudra Monday: Padma Mudra

The Lotus seal represents the purity and perseverance of the lotus flower floating above the muddy waters of desire, fear, and attachment

The Lotus Mudra opens the heart chakra and is a symbol of purity. Think of the white lotus flower sitting on the surface of a pond, opening its petals towards the sun as its roots remain deeply embedded into the muddy bottom, holding it firm and strong. It is a symbol of the light and beauty that emerges from the darkness.

The message of the Lotus Mudra is to stay connected to your roots, open yourself to the light and realise that the greatest sense of steadiness in life comes from an open heart.

To create this Mudra, bring your hands into a soft Anjali Mudra in front of the heart center. Slowly unfurl your fingers like a lotus flower blossoming open, while keeping the base of the hands, the thumbs and little fingers together. Allow the index, middle, and ring fingers to gently open. Traditionally, it is practiced in a seated position, but it can also be incorporated into a more flowing practice where it becomes a 'floating' Lotus that can be used in a Tai Chi way, as if you were carrying a chalice filled with offerings from your heart from one posture to the next. 

This Mudra can leave us feeling grounded and strong like a lotus flower, while opening our heart to the joys of life. It is a great reminder of the beauty and grace that is within us all. You can use it to cultivate love and affection, to ease loneliness, and can also be practiced when we feel drained or misunderstood.

Take some time to open your heart.

Elements: Fire.

If you'd like to know more about Hasta Mudras you can read my introduction to the topic here and find all previous Mudra Monday blogs here.

Illustration © estudio mosa 2018