Now we’re into the Festive Season, it’s all too easy to over-indulge … then feel the discomfort, … and regret it!
So here’s a simple way to help you retune your appetite.
You’ll still be able to enjoy your favourite foods, but you won’t be so tempted into excess.
I like to think this finger posture is like resetting the thermostat in our lounge. When it gets too hot, I turn down the thermostat; when my appetite gets out of control, I reset it with my fingers!
Adopting the finger posture
- Bend your ring finger (fourth finger), so it touches the base of your thumb.
- Lightly place your thumb over your ring finger.
- Keep your remaining fingers gently extended.
When possible hold the posture with both hands, though one hand is better than none!
Using the finger posture
Ideally hold the posture with both hands for 45 minutes a day. This can be broken down into a series of shorter sessions. It’s quite easy to reach 45 minutes if you hold the posture any time one, or both, your hands are free.
If you find yourself getting too hot you’ve created too much fire, so release the posture.
Enhancing the effect
Adopting this finger posture while I’ve been doing other things works well for me; I just don’t want to eat so much! So much easier than forced self-discipline.
If you find you need to enhance the effect, you can do so by avoiding multi-tasking and being fully present with your breath as you hold the posture.
And, if you like, you can also add a visualisation or affirmation.
Other effects of Surya Mudra (Sun Mudra)
The proper name for this finger posture is Surya Mudra. It works by suppressing the earth element, and increasing the fire element. Increasing the fire element increases your metabolic rate, and also heats your body. So it also helps with weight loss.
A little about finger mudras
Mudras, or seals, have been practised for thousands of years by different cultures all over the world. Ancient healing systems such as yoga, reflexology, Chinese five elements, meridian therapy, and acupressure show the connections between various parts of the hand and specific parts of the body. Mudras use these connections to influence the brain to make changes in appropriate parts of your body and broader energy system.
