What is shankha mudra?

Answer 1

Shankh Mudra and Throat Disorders

Mudra hand positions are physical gestures that have an effect on the energy flow of the body. The ancient practice of yoga links the hand mudras to the changing spiritual and mental aspects of a person.

In yoga, mudras are used in conjunction with pranayama -yogic breathing exercises, generally while seated in Padmasana pose, to stimulate different parts of the body involved with breathing and to affect the flow of prana in the body. One hundred and eight mudras are used in regular Tantric rituals.

Shankh Mudra

How to do it

Shankh Mudra resembles Conch shell. Conch Shell is traditionally used in Hindu temples for worship. Conch Shell is blown to create pure sound vibrations.

Place your hands just before your chest. Use your right hand to grasp the left thumb, with your fingers wrapped firmly around it. Now bring the remaining fingers of the left hand into place so that they make contact with your right thumb. The hands brought together in this manner resemble a conch. Maintain this formation with your hands at chest level and keep your eyes closed for as much time as you wish to.

Whilst practicing Shankh Mudra, the person is suggested to chant "Om" several times and then focus and listen to the silence within oneself for few minutes, afterwards.

This Mudra can be practiced as often and as long as the practitioner wants, until his desired outcome is achieved.

Shankh Mudra is good for solving problems and ailments related to Vishuddhi Chakra-Throat Chakra, that is the energy centre in the throat area.

Shankh Mudra helps those with speech and throat ailments. Shankh mudra also helps by clearing the throat. It relieves stammering. It gives a quality to your speech by restoring the pitch and resonance. It also balances the Thyroxine secretion from Thyroid gland.