Shakti-Chalini or Maha Vedha Mudra
Introduction
Mudras are symbolic yogic hand gestures that influence prana (vital energy) and affect physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Shakti Chalini Mudra is an energy-activating and circulating mudra that helps awaken inner power, boost vitality, and stimulate the flow of prana throughout the body.
The term “Shakti” means energy, power, or divine force, and “Chalini” means to move, circulate, or activate. Therefore, this mudra focuses on activating and circulating energy within the body, especially during meditation, pranayama, or spiritual practices.
Meaning
Shakti = Energy, power, vitality.
Chalini = Circulation, movement.
Mudra = Yogic seal or gesture.
Purpose: To stimulate the flow of energy, increase vitality, and enhance pranic movement for overall physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.
How to Perform (Practice)
Sit in padmasana. Relax the body and close the eyes.
Place the palms of the hands on the floor beside the thighs with the fingers pointing forward or make fists with the knuckles facing down.
The arms should be straight but relaxed. Inhale slowly and deeply.
Retain the breath inside.
Raise the body by placing all the weight on the hands and straightening the arms.
Gently beat the buttocks on the ground 3 times, keeping the awareness at the perineum.
The buttocks and the back of the thighs should touch the ground simultaneously. The spine must be kept straight.
Gently rest the buttocks back on the floor. Exhale. This is one round. When the breathing returns to normal, repeat the process. Practice 3 rounds.
Benefits
Physical Benefits
Stimulates internal energy and metabolism.
Enhances respiratory efficiency and oxygen uptake.
Supports immunity and general vitality.
Helps combat fatigue, lethargy, and cold-related weakness.
Mental & Emotional Benefits
Improves focus, mental alertness, and motivation.
Reduces mental fatigue and stress.
Enhances emotional resilience and confidence.
Spiritual Benefits
Activates pranic energy in energy centers (chakras), particularly the Manipura (solar plexus) and Sahasrara (crown) chakras.
Encourages willpower, determination, and inner strength.
Supports meditation by circulating subtle energy throughout the body.
Contraindications
Finger, hand, or wrist injuries.
High blood pressure or hyperthyroidism may require caution as this mudra stimulates internal energy.
Avoid over-practice if hands, wrists, or shoulders feel strained.
Anatomy & Physiology
Musculoskeletal: Engages intrinsic hand muscles, stabilizes fingers, lightly activates forearm muscles.
Circulatory system: Enhances blood flow to hands, wrists, and upper limbs.
Nervous system: Stimulates sensory nerve endings, improving alertness and energy perception.
Endocrine system: Supports adrenal and thyroid activity, boosting vitality and internal energy.
Kinesiology
Ring and little fingers folded into the palm and pressed by thumb, creating a seal that directs energy inward.
Index and middle fingers extended to project and circulate energy.
Shoulders relaxed, elbows slightly bent, wrists neutral.
Enhances hand stability, proprioception, and pranic energy circulation.
Neurology
Stimulates peripheral nerve endings, enhancing mind-body coordination, focus, and energy awareness.
Activates mild sympathetic response to boost internal energy.
Supports cortical areas related to attention, motivation, and subtle energy perception.
Facilitates circulation of prana and enhanced energetic awareness during meditation.
Duration of Mudra
Beginners: 5 minutes.
Intermediate: 10–15 minutes.
Advanced: 20–30 minutes during meditation or pranayama.
Tip: Daily practice enhances vitality, energy circulation, and mental alertness.
Counter Mudra
Shaant Mudra: To calm excessive energy after practice.
Prana Mudra: To further energize the body and mind.
Apana Mudra: To release excess heat or stagnant energy post-practice.
Conclusion
Shakti Chalini Mudra is an energy-circulating mudra that boosts vitality, stimulates internal energy, and enhances mental alertness. Regular practice integrates physical, emotional, and subtle energy benefits, making it ideal for meditation, pranayama, and energy-boosting routines.
FAQ
Q1. Can beginners practice this mudra?
Yes, it is safe for most practitioners with gentle finger positioning.
Q2. Can it help with fatigue or low energy?
Yes, it stimulates prana and enhances vitality.
Q3. How long should it be practiced daily?
5–15 minutes for beginners; up to 30 minutes for advanced practitioners.
Q4. Can it be combined with meditation or pranayama?
Yes, it is effective during meditation, pranayama, or morning energy routines.
References
Swami Satyananda Saraswati, Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha.
B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Yoga.
Hatha Yoga Pradipika – Mudras for energy activation and prana circulation.
Gheranda Samhita – Mudras for vitality, inner power, and subtle energy flow.
Kuvalayananda, Yoga Mimamsa Journal.