Ashwini Mudra is done by contracting the anal sphincter muscles in a rhythmic manner. It is observed that horses are adept in doing this. Ashwini Mudra comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Ashwa’ which means a horse and mudra means gesture or sign.
Ashwini mudra should not be confused with Moola Bandha and Vajroli mudra which also involves contraction of muscles below the abdominal region. This mudra is very easy to perform and can be done during anytime and by any age group. This mudra is good for improving health of the large intestine and for conserving pranic energy.
How to do Ashwini Mudra?
- Sit in a comfortable meditative pose. Sukhasana, Padmasana, Swastikasana, Ardha Padmasana, etc. are suited. It can be done even while sitting in a chair.
- Relax the body and breathe normally.
- Contract the anal sphincter muscles and hold it for few seconds.
- Release the anal muscles and breathe normally for few seconds.
- Repeat this practice for as long as you are comfortable.
Ashwini Mudra with breathing
Ashwini mudra can also be practiced in tandem with the breath. In this variation, contract the sphincter muscles while breathing in and hold it. While releasing the sphincter muscles, breathe out. Repeat this process for as long as you are comfortable.
Benefits of Ashwini Mudra
- Ashwini mudra gives control of the anal muscles just like a horse.
- Doing this mudra conserves the prana that moves down and escapes the body. With Ashwini mudra, the prana is turned upwards for spiritual purposes.
- It can be done in an inverted pose also. In this case it helps those suffering from piles and prolapse of rectum or uterus.
- It helps to remove constipation.
- According to Gheranda Samhita, the practice of Ashwini mudra can awaken the dormant Kundalini Shakti. It also removes all diseases of the rectum.
- It gives strength and vigor and prevents premature death.