Whilst meditating in Padmasana or the lotus pose we are creating an energy lock so that our energy is not escaping from our feet. The same can be done with our hands whilst meditating.

These hand gestures are called 'Mudras' or energy 'seals'. There are over 45 different types of Mudras in yoga. Below are examples of some that you can try whilst meditating:

Namaste or Atmanjali Mudra

When we come to mandir and do darshan we hold our palms together in front of our heart in a namaste or Atmanjali Mudra. Namaste represents the belief that Lord Shree Swaminarayan is located in our heart and our soul is coming together to join Lord Shree Swaminarayan through the gesture of our hands.

Jnana Mudra and Chin Mudra

To do this mudra you need to place the tip of your thumb on the tip of your index finger whilst the other fingers remain relaxed and extended. You should do this with both hands and place them on your thigh whilst in Padmasana during meditation. When the fingers are pointing upwards it is called Jnana Mudra and when they are pointing downwards it is called Chin Mudra. This Mudra helps anyone who is meditating concentrate. You may have noticed that this is the Mudra that Bapa often uses whilst meditating.

Dhyani Mudra

This is another common Mudra used during meditation. You should place both hands on your lap like a bowl. The left hand lies in the right hand with your thumbs touching each other. The shape of the bowl is symbolic of you asking Lord Shree Swaminarayan to give you new energy.

Abhaya Mudra

In this Mudra you raise your right hand to chest level like you want to wave to somebody. Your left hand is on your left thigh. This Mudra promises freedom from fear. Again, this is a Mudra that we are all familiar with as Bapa often does this Mudra.