Varuna Mudra (Varuna Mudra)
A hand position in which the tip of the little finger touches the tip of the thumb while the other three fingers stay extended.
Varuna Mudra is a seated hand position. Touch the tip of your little finger to the tip of your thumb, keep the other fingers extended, and rest the hands palms up on your knees. Hold it for a few minutes during meditation or slow breathing. Claims about hydration or skin are unproven. Keep the touch light with stiff fingers.
| Sanskrit name | Varuna Mudra |
|---|---|
| Category | Mudras |
| Difficulty | Beginner |
| Primary benefit | A gentle hand position to hold during seated practice |
| Breathing | Breathe slowly and smoothly through the nose with a natural rhythm |
| Safe for seniors | Yes |
| Contraindications | Finger or wrist arthritis: keep the hold light and short, Don't use mudras in place of medical care for any health condition |
What is Varuna Mudra?
Varuna Mudra is a hand position in which the tip of the little finger meets the tip of the thumb, while the index, middle and ring fingers stay extended. Varuna is a Vedic deity who, in later Hindu tradition, became the lord of all waters, including oceans, rivers and lakes. The mudra is named for him and is described as a gesture of the element water.
It belongs to a modern system of finger mudras in which each finger stands for an element. In that system the little finger represents water, and touching it to the thumb is said to increase the water element. Some reference lists describe a different form, with the little finger folded under the thumb, so you may see both versions. The fingertip-to-fingertip form is the more common one.
In practice, Varuna Mudra is held with both hands resting palms up on the knees or thighs during seated meditation or breathing practice, typically for a few minutes.
Varuna Mudra is often said to keep the body hydrated, clear the skin, relieve dry eyes, or ease joint stiffness. These are traditional beliefs and haven't been shown in good-quality research. Balancing elements is a symbolic idea, not a physical process you can measure. Drinking water hydrates you; a hand position doesn't. The honest benefit is a simple, gentle gesture to hold while you sit and breathe.
Step-by-step instructions
- Sit upright on a cushion or chair with your shoulders relaxed.
- Rest the backs of your hands on your knees or thighs, palms up.
- Touch the tip of your little finger lightly to the tip of your thumb.
- Keep your index, middle and ring fingers extended and relaxed.
- Close your eyes and breathe slowly through the nose.
- Hold for a few minutes, then release and stretch your fingers.
Tips & modifications
- Beginner: If the little finger can't reach the thumb easily, bring the thumb across to meet it rather than straining the finger.
- Common mistake: Letting the ring finger fold in as well. Only the little finger and thumb touch.
- Easier or harder: Rest your hands in your lap if holding them on your knees tires your shoulders.
- Safety: Release the gesture if the base of your thumb aches.
Safety
If you have any of the contraindications listed above, or a health condition, talk to your doctor before practicing. Stop if you feel sharp pain, dizziness, or numbness. Use props and modifications as needed, especially if you are 50+ or new to yoga.