Varāha Mudrā
Introduction
Varāha Mudrā is a classical yogic and tantric hand gesture inspired by Varāha, the boar incarnation of Lord Vishnu. In Hindu mythology, Varāha lifted the Earth (Bhūdevi) from the depths of the cosmic ocean, symbolizing protection, rescue, and restoration of balance. Similarly, this mudrā is believed to awaken vitality, grounding, and resilience, while offering energetic protection against negativity.
Meaning
- Varāha = boar, the third avatāra of Vishnu.
- Mudrā = gesture, seal, or psychic posture.
Thus, Varāha Mudrā means “the gesture of the Boar”, symbolizing the restoration of Earthly balance, grounding, and protection. It embodies courage, survival instinct, and the rooting of prāṇa into the body.
How to Perform Practice
- Sit in Padmāsana, Vajrāsana, or Sukhasana with spine straight.
- Hold the left hand with the palm facing you. Curl the middle, ring, and little fingers toward the palm with the index finger pointing to the right and the thumb extended upward. With the right hand, clasp the curled fingers of the left.
- Connect the right index finger to the left thumb. left index finger rests on the outside of the right little finger.
- Focus on the Mulādhāra (root chakra) or Navel (Manipūra chakra).
- Breathe deeply and visualize yourself being grounded, stable, and protected.
- Optionally chant the mantra: “Om Varāhāya Namah”.
Benefits of Varāha Mudrā
Physical Benefits
- Strengthens the respiratory system by widening the chest.
- Improves digestion and stimulates abdominal organs.
- Enhances circulation in the arms and hands.
- Relieves fatigue and revitalizes body energy.
Mental Benefits
- Promotes grounding and stability during emotional upheaval.
- Increases courage, determination, and resilience.
- Reduces fear, anxiety, and insecurity.
- Boosts concentration and mental clarity.
Spiritual Benefits
- Awakens Mulādhāra chakra (root chakra – grounding, survival).
- Connects with the protective energy of Varāha (Vishnu’s avatar).
- Shields the practitioner from negative energies and psychic disturbances.
- Promotes balance between the earth element and cosmic consciousness.
Contraindications
- Avoid long practice if you have severe hand arthritis or joint stiffness.
- People with hypertension should practice gently with slow breathing.
- Should not be forced if it causes discomfort in the thumb joints.
Anatomy & Physiology
- Opens the thoracic cavity, improving lung function.
- Stimulates the abdominal viscera, aiding digestion.
- Activates sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous system balance.
- Improves musculoskeletal alignment of upper body.
Kinesiology
- Engages opposition of the thumb (symbolic of Varāha tusks).
- Coordinates flexion of the fingers with thumb abduction.
- Activates fine motor control of hand intrinsic muscles.
- Supports postural stability by grounding through the hands.
Neurology
- Stimulates sensory nerves of the thumb and fingers.
- Activates brain regions linked to survival instinct and grounding.
- Balances hemispheric activity for alert yet calm awareness.
- Induces alpha-theta brainwave states, aiding meditation.
Duration of Mudrā
- Beginners: 5–10 minutes daily.
- Intermediate: 15–20 minutes during meditation or mantra practice.
- Advanced: 30–45 minutes for deep grounding and energy protection practices.
Counter Mudra
- Prithvi Mudrā (earth gesture) – strengthens grounding after Varāha practice.
- Apāna Mudrā – helps channel downward energy for stability.
- Jnana Mudrā – balances grounding with clarity.
Conclusion
Varāha Mudrā is a powerful hand gesture embodying the protective, stabilizing, and grounding force of Vishnu’s Varāha avatāra. Physically, it supports the lungs and digestion; mentally, it instills courage and resilience; spiritually, it strengthens the root chakra and shields against negativity. Regular practice of this mudrā helps one remain grounded, strong, and energetically balanced, even in challenging times.
FAQ
Q1. What does Varāha Mudrā symbolize?
It symbolizes the protective and grounding energy of Varāha, the boar incarnation of Vishnu.
Q2. Which chakra does it activate?
It primarily activates the Mulādhāra (root chakra) and secondarily the Manipūra (solar plexus chakra).
Q3. Can beginners practice Varāha Mudrā?
Yes, it is simple and suitable for all, though should be avoided with hand injuries.
Q4. Can it be used in meditation?
Yes, especially with grounding mantras like Om Varāhāya Namah.
Q5. What time of day is best for practice?
Early morning or evening, when seeking grounding, stability, or protection.
References
- Swami Satyananda Saraswati – Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha
- Gertrud Hirschi – Mudras: Yoga in Your Hands
- Joseph Le Page – Mudras for Healing and Transformation
- Vishnu Purana – Mythology of Varāha Avatāra