The word mudra means seal. It has a number of different connotations in yoga, including the bandhas (locks) and meditation practices; however, mudras are most commonly associated with hand gestures. The fingers are related to different types of energies, and when they are brought together in specific ways, they produce subtle effects.

From a physical standpoint, mudras can help balance the flow of energy through the nadis that nourish our internal organs. On a mental level, they can also be performed to achieve specific states of consciousness. Emotionally, mudras can help us eliminate negative thought forms and improve our moods.

Kareena demonstrates these mudras, which she says should be practiced with the spine and head erect. The eyes are focused downward toward the nostrils or at the Sun center between the eyebrows to activate the third eye. In addition, Kareena recommends either touching the feet to the floor or assuming half or full lotus position to "ground the spirit into the visceral body."

MUDRA FOR TRUST Lift hands overhead and place right palm over back of left hand. (Reverse hands for men.) Elbows bend softly and shoulders press down away from ears. Imagine creating a triangle over your crown chakra...to connect to your crown chakra. Breathe short, fast breaths of fire, while focusing on the navel, to build inner trust.

MUDRA FOR JOY Bend elbows and open arms to side. Position hands at shoulder level with palms facing forward. Press the little and ring fingers down into palms and cross your thumb tightly over them. Lift middle and index fingers straight up toward the heavens like the peace sign. Inhale slowly for eight counts. Exhale for eight counts... and SMILE as you feel the glow of your inner light.

MUDRA FOR RECHARGING Fist your right hand with thumb pointing upward. Wrap your left palm around the right hand's fist, thumb pointing upward. Touch the two thumbs together, straighten elbows and push arms and hands away from chest. Feel the left hand resisting the strong push of the right fist. Push shoulders back to increase resistance. Avoid hunching shoulders; keep chest and rib cage lifted. Focusing eyes on thumbs, inhale slowly for eight counts and exhale for eight counts. Feel energy radiating from base of spine into hands and arms as you re-charge.

Kareena teaches yoga and leads energy workshops, including posture workshops--hence the fruit bowl--in the Chicago area. See classified section of this magazine for details.

For further reading, Kareena recommends Healing Mudras; Yoga for Your Hands, by Sabrina Mesko, Ballantine Publishing.