The Vishnu Mudra for cleansing the energy channels Vishnu Mudra is a pranayama exercise, a breathing exercise in the category of balancing alternate nostril breathing. Alternate nostril breathing is called "Nadi Shodhana" in Sanskrit. Translated, this means "cleansing the nadis," where nadis refer to the energetic channels in the subtle body. The nadis must be free of blockages and impurities so that prana, or energy, can move freely. Only then can we experience joy, balance, and harmony. To practice Vishnu Mudra, the index and middle fingers are bent toward the ball of the thumb. The ring fingers, thumb, and little fingers are spread apart. The thumb and ring fingers are used to alternately close the nostrils to support alternate nostril breathing. Incidentally, Vishnu Mudra is named after an important Hindu god. Vishnu is the protector of the world, who ensures that the universe is kept in balance. In this respect, the name of the mudra can also be derived from the effect of the alternate breathing that is regularly applied with it, in which the energetic and physical energy flow is kept in optimal harmony.
Vishnu Mudra in practice
The Vishnu Mudra hand position is used in the active nostril breathing exercise in yoga. As already described, the index and middle fingers of the right hand are curled toward the palm, while the remaining fingers remain spread out. The thumb and ring finger are gently placed on either side of the nose. While inhaling through the left nostril, the practitioner closes their right nostril with their thumb. The subsequent exhalation occurs through the right nostril, which is then released. At the same time, the left nostril is closed with the ring finger. After inhaling through the right nostril and exhaling through the left, the alternate nostril breathing cycle is completed.
Variations of Vishnu Mudra
This pranayama is repeated several times after completing a cycle of alternate nostril breathing. Different techniques can be used. One of these is alternate nostril breathing without breath retention, i.e., breathing without pauses. Many people find this technique more comfortable, as some feel tightness when holding their breath. A good breathing rhythm is to count to five while inhaling. The exhalation occurs without pause, but for a longer time than the inhalation. Ideally, you should quietly count to 10 while exhaling before continuing with the short inhalation. Nadi Shodhana with breath retention is practiced with pauses in between, although this breath retention can be held for different lengths of time. One possible breathing rhythm is to count to three during the full yoga inhalation, then close both nostrils with the ring finger and thumb and count to twelve, and then exhale for six seconds. This type of alternate nostril breathing can have different proportions. A basic rhythm of inhalation-breath retention-exhalation, for example, is 1-4-2. Alternate nostril breathing with Vishnu Mudra can also be performed with a rhythm of 3-6-3, 4-16-18, or even 5-20-10. When practicing alternate nostril breathing with or without pauses, it is important that the practitioner feels comfortable. If you feel unwell or dizzy, you should immediately stop alternate nostril breathing and return to a normal rhythm. It is best to begin alternate nostril breathing with Vishnu Mudra slowly, without pauses, and with a shorter breathing rhythm, gradually increasing the intervals and pauses as your practice progresses.
Effect of Pranayama Vishnu Mudra
Vishnu Mudra is said to have several positive effects. This pranayama supposedly balances the right and left sides of the brain, improving concentration and preparing for subsequent meditation. The astral energy channels are cleansed, allowing energy to flow freely again. Furthermore, the practice of Visnu Mudra calms the mind and reduces stress. Deep and slow breathing, especially when combined with breath retention, improves energy levels, as life energy can be better absorbed with slow breathing and breath retention. Most yogis feel refreshed, rested, centered, and energetically recharged after practicing Vishnu Mudra.
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