Añjali Mudra

This is a hand gesture, where both hands are pressed together. This gesture is practiced throughout Asia, especially in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Burma, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Indonesia. The word Affali Mudra® stems from the Sanskrit language. Añjali* describes the cavity, which emerges when two hands are folded together. This cavity allows our hands to hold and offer something. Besides, when the two hands are pressed together and held up high, this is a sign of respect or salutation. Then Mudra translates to a seal or sign.

This gesture is a way of praying in many religions in India and greeting people like shaking hands in Western cultures. Nowadays, this nonverbal expression is incorporated in meditation and in several asanas of Yoga.