Dhyana Mudra (Meditation Mudra)
Dhyāna Mudrā
dhee-YAH-nah moo-DRAH • Meditation Gesture
The classic meditation mudra of the Buddha, promoting deep concentration, tranquility, and spiritual awakening
About This Mudra
Dhyana Mudra is the quintessential meditation gesture, most famously depicted in images of the Buddha during his enlightenment under the Bodhi tree. This ancient mudra is described in numerous texts including the Hatha Yoga Pradipika and Gheranda Samhita. The gesture represents perfect balance, deep concentration, and the unification of individual consciousness with universal consciousness. The right hand (representing enlightenment, wisdom, and skillful means) rests upon the left hand (representing the phenomenal world, samsara). The touching thumbs form a triangle representing the Three Jewels (Buddha, Dharma, Sangha) or the union of method and wisdom. This mudra creates a closed circuit of energy, preventing its dissipation and directing it inward for deep meditation. It is the gesture of Samadhi - the state of deep meditative absorption where the mind becomes perfectly still and transcends all dualities.
How to Practice
These are traditional textual instructions. For live demonstrations and lineage-specific variations, please also use the YouTube link at the end of this page and follow a trusted teacher.
- 1Sit in a comfortable meditation posture (Padmasana, Sukhasana, or Vajrasana)
- 2Keep your spine straight and shoulders relaxed
- 3Place your left hand on your lap, palm facing upward
- 4Place your right hand on top of your left hand, also palm facing upward
- 5Allow the tips of your thumbs to touch lightly, forming a triangle
- 6Keep both hands relaxed and resting in your lap at navel level
- 7Close your eyes and relax your face
- 8Breathe naturally and deeply
- 9Focus your awareness at the third eye or navel center
- 10Rest in stillness, allowing thoughts to settle like dust in still water
Breathing Pattern
Breathe naturally and effortlessly. Allow the breath to become subtle and refined. Do not control the breath; simply witness it. As thoughts arise, let them pass like clouds in the sky, returning awareness to the breath and the stillness within.
Benefits
Physical
- Calms the nervous system
- Reduces blood pressure
- Relaxes facial muscles and jaw
- Promotes deep relaxation response
- Reduces physical tension
Mental
- Deepens meditation practice
- Promotes mental stillness and clarity
- Reduces scattered thinking
- Enhances concentration (Dharana)
- Cultivates inner peace and equanimity
Energetic
- Creates closed energy circuit
- Directs prana inward
- Balances left and right energy channels
- Prepares for Samadhi
- Unifies individual and universal consciousness
When to Use
- During meditation practice
- For developing deep concentration
- When seeking mental stillness and peace
- For spiritual contemplation
- At the beginning or end of yoga practice
Contraindications
- None known - safe for all practitioners
- If experiencing extreme drowsiness, use more active meditation
Focus Points
Learn This Mudra on YouTube
There are many safe variations of this mudra across different traditions. For the actual hand positions and guided practice, please learn from a qualified teacher or a trusted video. The button below opens a basic YouTube search where you can choose a video that matches your level and health needs.
Open YouTube Search