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Ushas mudra is a basic yoga gesture that's designed to energize the body and awaken creativity. It is a hasta (hand) mudra. The name is derived from the Sanskrit ushas, meaning “dawn,” and mudra, meaning “gesture” or “seal In this mudra, the hands are clasped together with the fingers interlaced. For men, the right thumb should be on top. For women, the left thumb rests on top. The top thumb should apply gentle pressure to the other thumb In English, ushas mudra is also known as "the break-of-day mudra" and "the origin of all good things Ushas mudra is believed to bring about change and new beginnings. As such, it can help awaken the body and mind when practiced in the morning Practicing ushas mudra is also thought to have the following benefits Increases clarity and mental alertness Balances the hormones Enlivens sexuality Enhances pleasure In a spiritual yoga practice, this mudra opens the svadisthana (spleen or sacral) chakra, which is associated with creativity and sexuality As with any hasta mudra, ushas mudra is particularly beneficial when meditating, and can be practiced while seated, prone, standing or even walking -- as long as the body is relaxed and the posture is symmetrical. It is recommended that ushas mudra be practiced for five to 15 minutes a day