Vishnu Mudra (विष्णु मुद्रा) is a sacred hand gesture (mudra) used primarily during pranayama (breath control) practices especially Nadi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing. Named after Lord Vishnu the preserver in Hindu tradition this mudra symbolizes the maintenance of cosmic balance.
To form Vishnu Mudra fold the index and middle fingers toward the palm while keeping the ring finger thumb and little finger extended. During pranayama practice the thumb is used to close the right nostril while the ring finger closes the left nostril allowing for alternating breath control.
The specific finger positions in Vishnu Mudra have energetic significance. The folded index and middle fingers represent the transcendence of ego and past karma. The extended ring finger represents health and stability while the little finger symbolizes communication and mental clarity. The thumb represents divine consciousness and universal energy.
Beyond its mechanical function in pranayama Vishnu Mudra activates specific nerve endings in the fingertips that correspond to brain centers according to yogic physiology. This activation helps balance the hemispheres of the brain and regulate the flow of prana (vital energy) through the subtle energy channels.
Practitioners report that regular use of Vishnu Mudra during breath work helps reduce stress anxiety and mental chatter while improving focus concentration and emotional stability. The mudra enhances the effectiveness of alternate nostril breathing in balancing the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems.
As both a practical tool and symbolic gesture Vishnu Mudra reminds practitioners of the equilibrium between opposing forces—intake and output activity and rest solar and lunar energies—that characterizes harmonious living.
