MOVES TO BEAT ANY BAD MOOD

Those hand movements that Madonna does on stage aren't new ways to vogue, they're mudras. "Mudras are a yoga technique that can change your mood and enhance your emotions, "says Yoga Zone's Alan Finger. Here, four moves to try on your own. Hold each for 10 slow breaths.

If you are BROKENHEARTED Try JNANAM If your love life is bumming you out , this move will help balance your emotions. Touch index fingers to thumbs, keeping your three other fingers straight. Close eyes and bring right hand to heart while resting left hand, palm upward, on knee. Feel your heart unfolding.

If you are DISTRACTED Try SHAKATAM Use this move to boost your powers of concentration. Bring hands together to create a triangle: thumbs should touch, but forefingers remain slightly apart. Hold hands near your navel and gaze down at your fingers.

If you are UNINSPIRED Try JNANA Use this mudra next time you need a mental jump start or creative boost. Touch thumbs and index fingers, fanning out other fingers. Cross your wrists and bow your head as you close your eyes. You'll find inspiration from the world around you.

If you are LOW-ENERGY Try PANKAJAM Feeling sluggish? Revitalize and reenergize with this mudra. Place base of palms together, with fingers spread apart and slightly bent: Think of your hands as a cup receiving energy. Focus on capturing this force and letting it permeate every cell of your body.

taken from FITNESS January 1999
page 28 shows illustrations of positions