Finger Names in Sanskrit and various types of mudra

The Finger Names in ‘Sanskrit’ are, Thumb is called ‘Angushtha’, Pointing finger is called ‘Tarjani’, Middle finger is ‘Madhyama’, Ring finger is ‘Anamika’ and the Smallest finger is called ‘Kanishtika’.

Mudras are hand gestures used in yoga and meditation, which mean ‘mark’ or ‘seal’ in Sanskrit. In the Mudra philosophy, it is believed that our 5 fingers correspond to the 5 elements of the universe.

Thumb - Agni (fire)

Index finger- Vayu (Air) 

Middle finger- Akasha (Space), Ring finger - Prithvi (Earth), 

Little Finger -Jal(Water). 

Practitioners believe that when the finger representing a particular element is brought into contact with the thumb, that element is brought into balance, creating a stabilizing effect on the entire body. Mudras start electromagnetic currents in the body, create balance and promote health. Regular practice of these mudras can help create a balance between these five elements in the body.