Can Yoga Mudras be Done During Periods?
Yoga mudra is an essential part of yoga. There are several types of mudras in Yog Tatva Mudra Vigyan or the science of yoga mudras. No doubt, practicing mudras regularly has immense benefits for overall health.
Still, most of the ladies out there always have some questions about practicing mudras. Can we do mudras during periods? If yes, then which yoga mudras should be done during periods?
Yes, we can practice mudras during periods; there is no harm in performing yoga mudras during your menses or menstruation. But you have to be a little careful while practicing mudras when menstruation. Specific mudras are great to practice during your periods, while others can worsen your symptoms.
Have you ever thought of using mudras during periods? If not, then think about it now and start practising it.
Mudra is a Sanskrit word that means gesture, mark, or seal. There are various kinds of mudras, but I am explicitly talking about Hasta Mudra or Hand Gestures in this article.
Moreover, there are thousands of subtle energy pathways running through our bodies known as Nadis in Yogic philosophy. Many of these Nadis end in our hands and fingertips, which is why hand mudras are so powerful.
Can we do Mudras during Periods ?
I am feeling a bit odd while answering this query, as the question seems to be addressed to women, and so far, I am a man who is trying to answer!
As a guy, I obviously can’t advise women about menstruation.
But, Definitely, I can share what I know from my knowledge and what I had learned from my research.
So as I had said earlier, there is no harm in performing mudras while menstruating.
But it would be best if you were careful while deciding the mudra to practice.
According to yogic & ayurvedic theory, there are two types of energy flow inside our body. The upward movement is referred to as Prana energy, and downward movement is Apana energy.
Downward flowing energy, or Apana, is responsible for healthy elimination (including urination and other excretions) and reproductive cycles such as menstruation.
Hence during the menstrual cycle, women should perform those yoga asanas or mudras that help regulate the downward flow of energy (Apana movement).
By the practice of various mudras, period pain can be relieved by regularizing Apana movement.
Don’t think much – should it be done or not? For sure, mudras should be practiced during this period.
Best Yoga Mudras for Period
Here are some of the most effective yoga mudras which you can practice during menstruation:
1. Apana Mudra
Apana Mudra for periods is the best choice during this time. Apana mudra is also recognized as the Gesture of Elimination.
From the name itself, we can know Apana mudra helps regulate the downward flow of energy, which is crucial during menstruation.
The Apana mudra especially helps in general detoxification of the body, improves elimination, regulates menstruation, clarifies the skin, etc.
To perform Apana mudra, join the ring and middle fingers’ tips together with the thumb, keep the index and little finger extended and straight.
2. Shakti Mudra
Shakti Mudra is a hand gesture that helps to calms our body and mind. Along with it strengthens our inner energies and mental powers, which helps us make ourselves stable, physically and mentally.
It also improves the immune system and cures disorder like Insomnia
To perform Shakti Mudra, hold your palms facing each other, then touch the tips of the little finger and ring finger with the same fingers of the other hand.
Now fold & tuck the thumb into the middle of your palm, bend the index and middle finger to wrap the thumb lightly.
Also, the middle and index knuckles should be in touch with the same fingers of the other hand.
3. Ushas Mudra
Ushas Mudra makes us instantly energized by concentrating our energies. It is best hand mudra for hormonal balance. This mudra also Enlivens sexuality and Enhances pleasure.
By regulating proper hormonal flow, Ushas Mudra is beneficial to maintain a healthy menstrual cycle.
To perform this mudra you have to clasp your hands together with the fingers interlaced and palms are facing towards you. At the top, the position of thumb differs for men and women.
For men, the right thumb should be on top, while for women, the left thumb should rest on top. Make sure that the top thumb should apply gentle pressure to the other thumb.
4. Maha Sacral Mudra
Maha Sacral Mudra is used to relieve the symptoms of the pelvic or sacral region, such as digestive problems, menstrual cramps, and bladder or prostate disorders.
First, to perform Maha Sacral mudra, you need to touch the tips ring fingers of both the hand, then join and bring your thumb and little finger together and place them in front of your navel. Hold this gesture for about at least 10 to 15 slow and steady breaths.
Next, you need to touch the pads of the little fingers together, then join the ring finger and thumb of both hands and bring it in front of your navel.
Repeat this sequence as many times as you wish, but try to perform it at least for a minimum of seven minutes.
If you have any doubt, then refer to the below-mentioned image of Maha Sacral Mudra.
Ensure that index finger and middle fingers are correctly extended, and fingers are pointing downward in front of the lower abdomen.
5. Gyan Mudra
I think most of us are aware of Gyan Mudra. It is popularly known as the mudra of knowledge.
Gyan mudra is helpful to maintain stability in the body. It is particularly beneficial to control swings of emotion during menstruation. It also helps to increase mental strength, sharpen concentration. Eventually, it is more beneficial when it is practiced along with meditation.
To perform Gyan mudra, slightly touch the thumb’s tip and index finger together on both hands, forming a circle. Keep the remaining three fingers outstretched with the palm facing upward.
When to perform mudras during periods?
There is no absolute time for performing mudras; mudras can be done anytime and anywhere. It would be great if you practice mudras during the morning time on an empty stomach as the whole day will go smooth and cramp-free.
Focus on your breath while performing mudras.
Rules to follow while performing mudras
Now comes the rules which should be followed while performing the mudras. The mudras need proper performance as if not done correctly, then it can affect the body.
Let’s know about some of the rules which should be remembered while performing mudras.
- Sit in comfortable Posture: Meditation postures like Padmasana, Swastikasana, Siddhasana, etc., are excellent for the practice of mudras.
- Calm your Mind: Now, while sitting in a comfortable posture, take some deep breaths, observe the breaths & sensations and calm your mind.
- Form the Mudra: Now, slowly form the mudras in both hands simultaneously and place them above your knees. Remember one thing that you need to keep your hands loose and keep them in a comfortable position.
- Maintain the Mudra: Try to maintain the mudra for a minimum of five to ten minutes. Practice the mudras twice a day when you are on your periods so that you can have regular, pain-free, and smooth periods.
Note: If you are feeling more pain, then you can perform these mudras while lying down. Also, it is unnecessary to practice yoga or mudras during menstruation; if your body is restless, it’s time to relax.
In Conclusion
Mudras are very simple. You can practice them in any environment as it does not require any foundation; only you have to follow the above-mentioned few rules.
Do you want to get rid of the pain during periods?
If yes, then you should try various mudras, especially the Apana mudra. This type of mudra helps in regulating the menstrual cycle of women.
Also, it helps make the immune system stronger and helps in detoxifying the body, which is an essential part during periods.
So please, be happy to practice yoga mudras whether menstruating or not. No promises, but you might even find that it helps ease the discomfort. At least it will bring you some peace.
Instead of showing your mood swings and pain to others, perform these mudras and eliminate all negative energy.
Can we do mudras during periods?
From this article, it is clear that mudras can be performed during periods, which is very beneficial.
If your query is solved, then do share this article if someone is in a dilemma about whether to perform mudras or not! Also, if you have any doubt let me know in the comments below.
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FAQs on the practice of mudras during periods
Can we chant Om during periods?
Yes, you can chant OM during periods. Om Chanting is very beneficial during this time. If you are not feeling well or your mood is not good, then chanting OM can alleviate your mood.
Can we do Surya mudra during periods?
I would suggest mostly you should avoid Surya mudra during periods. As Surya mudra increases heat and energy in the body, this may further worsen menstruation symptoms.
Is it safe to do yoga in periods?
Yes, it is safe to do yoga in periods. But avoid doing inversion yoga asanas during periods.
Which asanas should be avoided during periods?
Inversion yoga asanas should be avoided during periods such as Shirshasana, Dhanurasana, Sarvangasana Halasana, Chakrasana, etc.