Form: Anjali / Atmanjali Mudra

Basic Instructions

• Place both hands together in front of chest / heart chakra.
• Another option is to take the hands behind the heart, outer edge of little fingers against back.
• Press heels and fingers of hands together firmly and evenly.
• Leave small space between palms (e.g. “cup” the hands slightly). Some teach to think of this small space as a place for the seed of your intention or prayer.
• Sometimes, the instruction is to place thumbs lightly on chest and sometimes it is to press thumbs against heart center.
• Or, in an asana such as Vrksasana (Tree Pose), the mudra may be instructed as not touching the chest.
• Lift elbows so forearms are parallel with floor.

Other Potential Instructions

• Lift chest to hands.
• Bow head to hands.

Meaning / Location of Gesture

Cain Carroll teaches the following

• Place hands above head for deities.
• Place hands in front of face for elders and teachers.
• Hold hands in front of chest for general respect.