Shanka mudra

Shanka is the Indain term for a conch. When this mudra is performed, the hands resemble a conch.

Method: first, clench the left thumb with right fingers. Now, Place the left fingers on the back of the right palm. Finally, join the tips of the right thumb and the left index finger.

Effects: The thumb which represents the element fire , is encircled(and thereby subdued) by the fingers. At the same time, the union of the left index finger and the right thumb results in an increase of element air. In other words the Shanka mudra brings about a decrease of Pitta humor but an increase of Vaata and Kapha humors within th body.
Benefits : Shanka mudra can be used to overcome the following disorders:
Feverish feeling in the bdoy,
Burning in the body/body –parts,
Allergic disorders, especially unicaria (skin rashes)
voice (larynx) and throat(pharynx) problems,
flabbiness/weakness /paralysis of muscles.

Duration: 45 minutes every day, either at one stretch or in three parts (i.e or 15 minutes, thrice a day). However, when suffering from fever or manifestations of allergy) it may be performed for longer periods.

Precaution: People with a Vaata+ Kapha mix constitution should perform this mudra in moderation.

Note: There is a simplified version of this mudra called ‘sahaj shanka mudra’, which is performed by interlocking the eight fingers and bringing in contact the two upward-pointing thumbs. Benefits of this mudra ar similar to those of the Shanka mudra.