Dhyana mudra is used during meditation to regularise energy flows in the subtle body
Dhyana Mudra is the mudra of meditation. This gesture is frequently used in depictions of Buddha Shakyamuni, Buddha Amitabha, the bodhisattva Prajnaparamita, and several other holy figures.
Dhyana, translated from Sanskrit, means ‘contemplation’, ‘intuition’, ‘seeing with the mind’, or ‘focused attention on an object’. According to the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, dhyana helps to eliminate five kinds of suffering (chapter 2, sutra 11).
Interesting fact: the words “mudra” and “wisdom” (sage) share a common root and similar meaning. Both symbolize the seal of knowledge and the pursuit of spiritual growth.
Indian yogis used Dhyana Mudra long before the advent of Buddhism. It was an integral part of concentration and meditation practices.
Other names for Dhyana Mudra:
- Yoga Mudra,
- Dharma Mudra,
- Samadhi Mudra.
In this gesture, the hands are placed one on top of the other, palms facing upward, with the right hand resting on top of the left. The tips of the thumbs touch.
The left hand is associated with the left energy channel, ida nadi, which corresponds to feminine energy. This channel governs our desires and feelings.
The right hand is associated with the pingala nadi channel, which manifests masculine energy and governs our thoughts and actions.
The position of the hands, with the right palm resting above the left, symbolizes the path to enlightenment and the triumph over the illusion of the material world. The hands, placed in this way, form a kind of bowl that the practitioner must fill with spiritual knowledge and energy.
The joined thumbs in Dhyana Mudra form a triangle, which in Buddhist tradition symbolizes the Triratna (Three Jewels):
- The Buddha – the spiritual teacher and guide;
- The Sangha – the spiritual community;
- The Dharma – the teachings that lead to enlightenment.
The Triratna (mystical triangle) represents the spiritual fire that destroys ignorance.
Dhyana mudra is often used in images of Shakyamuni Buddha
Dhyana Mudra is used during meditation to organize the energy flows in the subtle body. This helps to calm the mind and prepare it for the practice of focused concentration.
This mudra helps to achieve deep concentration and mental tranquility. With regular practice, it:
- reduces stress levels;
- helps eliminate anger, irritation, and anxiety;
- improves concentration;
- positively affects sleep quality;
- increases the body's resistance to disease;
- develops mindfulness.
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Assume a comfortable meditative pose (Padmasana, Sukhasana, Siddhasana, or another). The spine should be straight but relaxed.
- The shoulders should be lowered and relaxed, and the neck should be straight. Gently elongate through the crown of your head.
- Place your hands in front of you with the palms facing up. Place your right palm on top of your left, with your wrists about 8 cm from your abdomen.
- Join the tips of your thumbs, pointing them upward. Form an oval or “bowl” with your hands.
- Proceed to your meditation practice.
Important Details
- The fingers should be relaxed, not tense.
- Keep your hands close to your abdomen.
- The elbows should be slightly away from the body.
- The thumbs should lightly touch.
Recommendations for Performing Dhyana Mudra
- Start with 5–10 minutes.
- Gradually increase the duration.
- Focus on your breathing.
- The eyes can be closed or slightly open.
- This mudra can be practiced with pranayama and meditation.
- It is important to keep the spine straight, avoiding excessive tension.
Favorable Conditions
- It is best to practice early in the morning.
- On an empty stomach.
- In a quiet place without distractions.