Nizha Periaswamy

As a yoga teacher, I teach asanas (poses) and pranayama (breathing), and occasionally, dyana (meditation) to my students.

Beside these, I too teach mudra (hand gesture) and its benefits. We combine mudra with meditation to achieve the ultimate benefit.

But practising mudra, it is important to know to know the dominance of each elements. Our bodies are made up of the 5 elements : Fire, Air, Ether (Space), Earth, and Water.

Do you know that all these elements are within us, and each finger in our hands corresponds to an element? Below, I share the ties between the elements with our fingers, and the related mudras.

1) Earth, or bhumi, connected to something solid is represented by the ring finger.

For example, earth elements in your body includes the skin, bone, hair, teeth and organ. It concerns our basic needs, such as food, shelter, and sex.

Diseases tied to this element: Osteoporosis, Paralysis

Mudras: Prithvi mudra

2) Air, or vayu, is represented by the index finger.

This is believed to be the uppermost of all the elements. The air is a life force, gives freedom and lightness. The mudra related to this finger is good to relieve excessive gas, joint pains, bloating and abdominal discomfort.

Diseases tied to this element: Acne, Hypothyroidism, Alzheimer’s disease.

Mudra: Vayu mudra, Nyana mudra, Chinmaya mudra

3) Water, or jala is the most important element to all survival of all living things.

The pinky finger represents this element, which can relate to movement, gentleness, fluidity, flexibility and inquisitiveness.

Diseases tied to this element: Eczema, Constipation, Dehydration

Mudra: Varun mudra

4) Ether, known as Aakash is an element that puts everything together and allows them to prosper.

This element is represented by the middle finger. Practicing mudra related to this element can help control high blood pressure, reduce dullness in the body, and remove anger and fear.

Diseases tied to this element: Depression, Stress

Mudra: Aakash mudra, Shunya mudra

5) Fire or Agni is an element that corresponds with life force, energy, strength and vitality.

The thumb represent this crucial element. Doing mudra related to this element can help boost the immune system and keep metabolism strong.

Diseases tied to this element: : Constipation, Indigestion

Mudra: Surya mudra, Aditi mudra


Nizha Periaswamy is a yoga instructor and freelance writer.

Photo source: trueweight.in.com