Akashi Mudrā-Akashi Mudrā is a subtle yogic hand gesture that works with the ether (space) element,

Akashi Mudrā
Introduction
Akashi Mudrā is a subtle yogic hand gesture that works with the ether (space) element, similar to Ākāśa Mudrā. The name “Akashi” refers to one who belongs to or relates to space (ākāśa). This mudrā
is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to awaken inner consciousness, dissolve limitations,
and connect to the vastness of existence.
Unlike Ākāśa Mudrā, which is performed with thumb and middle finger, some traditions describe Akashi Mudrā as a gaze (drishti) and awareness mudrā that expands inner vision, especially by focusing awareness in the inner space of the head and heart. It is both a hand gesture and a mental practice for cultivating spaciousness and universal connection.

Meaning
Etymology:
Akashi = belonging to space, celestial, vast
Mudrā = seal, gesture, psychic attitude
Literal Meaning: “Gesture of Space Consciousness”
Symbolism: Represents freedom, openness, and universal expansion beyond the limits of body and mind.

How to Perform Practice
Akashi Mudra (awareness of inner space)
Sit in any comfortable meditation asana. Close the eyes and relax the whole body for a few minutes. Fold the tongue back against the palate in khechari mudra. Practice ujjayi pranayama and shambhavi mudra. Bend the head backward about 45 degrees.
Straighten the arms and lock the elbows, pressing the knees with the hands. Breathe slowly and deeply in ujjayi. Continue for as long as you feel comfortable.
End the practice by bending the elbows and releasing khechari and shambhavi mudras. Raise the head to the upright position. Resume normal breathing and be aware of the inner space.
Benefits Physical Benefits
Improves ear health, supports hearing and balance disorders (tinnitus, vertigo).
Enhances bone strength by improving calcium absorption.
Boosts lung capacity and oxygenation.
Helps clear toxins and congestion. Mental & Emotional Benefits
Reduces feelings of confinement, depression, or heaviness.
Enhances clarity, receptivity, and openness to new ideas.
Calms anxiety and overthinking by creating mental spaciousness.

1. Akashi Mudrā
Introduction
Akashi Mudrā is a subtle yogic hand gesture that works with the ether (space) element, similar to
Ākāśa Mudrā. The name “Akashi” refers to one who belongs to or relates to space (ākāśa). This
mudrā
is often used in meditation and spiritual practices to awaken inner consciousness, dissolve
limitations,
and connect to the vastness of existence.
Unlike Ākāśa Mudrā, which is performed with thumb and middle finger, some traditions describe
Akashi Mudrā as a gaze (drishti) and awareness mudrā that expands inner vision, especially by
focusing awareness in the inner space of the head and heart. It is both a hand gesture and a mental
practice for cultivating spaciousness and universal connection.
Meaning
Etymology:
oAkashi = belonging to space, celestial, vast
oMudrā = seal, gesture, psychic attitude
Literal Meaning: “Gesture of Space Consciousness”
Symbolism: Represents freedom, openness, and universal expansion beyond the limits of body and
mind.
How to Perform Practice
Akashi Mudra (awareness of inner space)
Sit in any comfortable meditation asana. Close the eyes and relax the whole body for a few
minutes. Fold the tongue back against the palate in khechari mudra. Practice ujjayi pranayama and
shambhavi mudra. Bend the head backward about 45 degrees.
Straighten the arms and lock the elbows, pressing the knees with the hands. Breathe slowly and
deeply in ujjayi. Continue for as long as you feel comfortable.
End the practice by bending the elbows and releasing khechari and shambhavi mudras. Raise the
head to the upright position. Resume normal breathing and be aware of the inner space.
Benefits Physical Benefits
Improves ear health, supports hearing and balance disorders (tinnitus, vertigo).
Enhances bone strength by improving calcium absorption.
Boosts lung capacity and oxygenation.
Helps clear toxins and congestion. Mental & Emotional Benefits
Reduces feelings of confinement, depression, or heaviness.
Enhances clarity, receptivity, and openness to new ideas.
Calms anxiety and overthinking by creating mental spaciousness.
Spiritual Benefits

2. FAQ
Expands consciousness, deepens meditation.
Awakens inner vision (chidakasha dharana).
Promotes detachment from ego, connecting with universal self.
Helps in astral experiences and lucid awareness in yogic traditions.
Contraindications
Avoid over-practice, which can cause excessive detachment or disconnection.
Not recommended for individuals with severe dizziness or extreme light-headedness.
Should be balanced with grounding mudras if feelings of “emptiness” or weakness occur.
Anatomy & Physiology
Involves thumb (fire element, Agni) and middle finger (space element, Akasha).
Activates the auditory system, vestibular balance, and skeletal metabolism.
Stimulates cranial nerves and expands lung–thoracic cavity functions.
Kinesiology
Requires precise coordination of the thumb and middle finger.
Engages intrinsic hand muscles for subtle stability.
Encourages stillness and posture alignment through neuromuscular relaxation.
Neurology
Stimulates parietal and temporal lobes (space perception, auditory functions).
Activates parasympathetic nervous system → promotes relaxation.
Enhances alpha–theta brainwave states, useful for meditation and inner vision.
Strengthens neural circuits of spatial awareness and introspection.
Duration of Mudra
Beginners: 10–15 minutes daily.
Therapeutic: 30–45 minutes (can be split into 2–3 sessions).
Advanced meditation: Up to 1 hour with deep inner awareness.
Counter Mudra
Prithvi Mudrā (Earth Mudra) – balances excessive space element with grounding.
Apana Mudrā – supports elimination and grounding energy.
Conclusion
Akashi Mudrā is a powerful yogic hand and awareness gesture that expands the space
element, cultivates inner clarity, and deepens spiritual consciousness. Physically, it
supports ear health, bone strength, and detoxification. Mentally, it brings openness and
calm. Spiritually, it connects the practitioner to the vast universal self. Like all mudrās, it
should be practiced in balance and complemented with grounding practices when
necessary.

3. Q1. Is Akashi Mudra the same as Akasha Mudra?
They are closely related. Some traditions treat them as synonyms; others distinguish Akashi Mudra
as having a stronger connection with chidakasha dharana (inner sky meditation).
Q2. Can it improve ear disorders?
Yes, it is traditionally prescribed for tinnitus, vertigo, and partial hearing issues. Q3. Can beginners
practice it?
Yes, but short sessions (5–10 minutes) are recommended at first. Q4. Can I combine it with
pranayama?
Yes, especially with Anulom Vilom or Ujjayi breathing for deeper awareness.
References
•Swami Satyananda Saraswati – Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha
•Gertrud Hirschi – Mudras: Yoga in Your Hands
•Joseph & Lilian LePage – Mudras for Healing and Transformation
•Dr. David Frawley – Ayurveda and the Mind
•Tiwari, O.P. – Pranayama: The Breath of Yoga