Emotional Freedom

The latest issue of the Chopra Newsletter is titled "Emotional Freedom" and it has this to say:

"Every emotion has a beginning and an end. Like an ocean wave, even the most painful feeling crests and dissipates. Even the happiest moment reaches a peak, then passes into memory. Emotional suffering only arises when, in our confusion, we block the natural flow of emotions by clinging tightly to resentment, grievance, and even desire.

Emotional freedom, on the other hand, is the ability to ride the waves of pain and pleasure without getting mired in either. Although this may seem like a special talent possessed by only a few, it is a process and a learnable skill. In this issue of Namaste, we invite you to explore the tools of emotional freedom...

In the yogic tradition, mudras are hand postures that direct the subtle flow of energy or prana throughout the body. Joining the hands and fingers in various configurations creates a circuit that allows energy to flow to different parts of the body and brain. Each mudra has a specific purpose, such as healing, deepening awareness, or rejuvenation.

To form the Kapittahaka Mudra or "Smiling Buddha" mudra - tuck your ring and pinky finger inside your palms. Rest your thumbs over the tucked fingers. Keep the index and middle fingers next to teach other and extended. Hold your elbows in towards your body, keeping about a 30 degree angle between upper arms and forearms. Breathe deeply and relax.

Kapitthaka mudra is said to open the flow of energy to the heart, release emotional toxicity, and promote emotional well-being and serenity."

For those of us coming from a Christian tradition, it is interesting to note how many pictures of Christ portray him with this gesture or mudra.

"When we can accept all of life's contradictions,
when we can comfortably flow
between the banks of pleasure and pain,
experiencing them both while getting stuck in neither,
then we are free."
- Deepak Chopra