Nurturing Roots: A Week with Kanishtha Mudra

Hey my friends! This is Michele from The Violet Butterfly Metaphysical Healing Center. As most of you know, I’m a highly sensitive person and empath, and I’m always looking for tools to help myself. Today, I’m thrilled to share my most recent adventure with Mudras—a journey ignited by the wisdom encapsulated in Joseph and Lilian Le Page’s “Mudras for Healing and Transformation.” I discovered this book and accompanying card deck while going through yoga teacher training a number of years ago. Within the last few weeks, the card deck got my attention from the bookshelf, and I knew it was time to reignite my interest in mudras.

What is a Mudra?

They’re like secret hand signals for the soul. Mudras are beautiful hand gestures that have been used for centuries in various spiritual practices. They’re like a language that communicates with your energy. Different finger positions create specific connections within the body, mind, and spirit. You might be familiar with Anjali Mudra, also known as the prayer pose.

Connecting with Kanishtha Mudra

For the past week, my meditation practice has been focused around the simple yet powerful Kanishtha Mudra, also known as the “Little Finger Mudra.” This beautiful hand gesture has proven to be a gentle guide in deepening my connection to the Earth.

How to Create the Kanishtha Mudra

(credit Joseph and Lilian Le Page “Mudras for Healing and Transformation”)

1. Hold your palms just below your breastbone and above your belly button.
2. Curl your 2nd, 3rd, and 4th fingers back into your palm.
3. Gently lay your thumbs on your folded index finger.
4. Bring your little fingers to touch at the tip.
5. Relax your shoulders back and down.
6. Allow your elbows to be away from your body, pointing toward the sides.
7. Take several natural breaths.

Earthly Bonds and Beyond

As I formed the Kanishtha Mudra, a subtle yet profound sense of grounding unfolded. I felt my bottom melt into my seat, leaving me feeling stable and supported. After recently returning from a week-long cruise, I find I’m still not feeling solidly on firm ground. I have been practicing this mudra to help with my stability. In the midst of life’s random chaos, this mudra became a sanctuary—a place to retreat, find solace, and regain balance, both physically and energetically.

Embodiment and Stress Reduction

One of the remarkable gifts of Kanishtha Mudra is its ability to deepen our sense of embodiment. As a spiritual teacher and witness to much that happens at The Violet Butterfly, I see that many people struggle with being truly embodied. When we aren’t embodied, anxiety and depression have the ability to creep up on us. Additionally, in this fast-paced world, stress can often become an unwelcome companion. Through the practice of this mudra, I felt the weight of stress gently lift as my breath became deeper, filling my abdomen and my exhale lengthening all on its own. This helped me feel more centered and tranquil.

Muladhara Chakra and Trust

My journey with Kanishtha Mudra led me to the sacred ground of the Muladhara (Root) chakra, nestled at the perineum. As this energy center opened and equalized, I sensed the release of subtle blockages tied to survival needs. Trust, safety, and security blossomed as some energy shifted, creating a firmer foundation for further energetic exploration.

Navigating Life’s Bounty

With a newfound sense of security, I felt better equipped to move forward, being more open and receptive to the Earth’s rich bounty. The cycles and seasons of the natural world became intertwined with my own, fostering a profound connection beyond the physical realm. Being so connected to Mother Earth allows for a freer flow of energy between me and nature, helping me feel supported and more secure.

Closing Reflections

As I conclude this week of exploration, Kanishtha Mudra stands as a testament to the transformative power of simple yet intentional practices. I invite you, dear readers, to embark on your own mudra journey and discover the treasures that await within the folds of your being.

May you find stability, trust, and a deep sense of connection as you navigate the intricate dance of life.

In gratitude and mindful presence,

Michele

Check out these other blog posts for Navigating the World as a Sensitive and an Empath and other methods of Self-Care.