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Bhujangini Mudra

Last updated: December 21, 2023

What Does Bhujangini Mudra Mean?

Bhujangini mudra is a yoga technique that is believed to aid digestion and control hunger. The term comes from the Sanskrit, bhujang, meaning “serpent,” and mudra, meaning “lock,” “seal” or “gesture.” In yoga, mudras are believed to control the flow of energy in the body and may also have symbolic significance.

Bhujangini mudra is so called because it resembles a cobra with its hood flared. From a seated posture, such as lotus pose, the yogi bends the upper body forward, stretches his/her neck and raises the gaze to the sky. He/she inhales as if drinking water, then straightens the body and exhales.

In English, bhujangini mudra is known as cobra respiration or cobra gesture.

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Yogapedia Explains Bhujangini Mudra

Yoga mudras are most often associated with hand positions, but mudras can involve any area of the body. Bhujangini mudra is classified as a mana (“head”) mudra and is also considered a pranayama, or yogic breathing exercise. This mudra sends the breath and energy to the abdominal region, thereby satiating not just physical hunger, but mental and spiritual hunger as well.

Some sources say the exhale in bhujangini mudra should be in the form of a burp that cleanses the digestive system. Although less common, bhujangini mudra can also be performed while practicing cobra pose (bhujangasana).


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