I started exploring mudrā when I found I was unconsciously adopting certain hand positions and body positions when meditating or doing other spiritual activities. And I also discovered that by adopting the postures deliberately, I could encourage specific effects. I wanted more. I wondered if my experience was anything like the experiences of others.

Turns out it was. I discovered that hand positions used in cultures far removed from each other often were similar or even the same.

Like the banishing gesture, shown above. I've seen references to it from south Asia where it has been used to ward off evil or sinful impulses. The same gesture has been used in Northern Europe to chase away wild animals. And a neighbour used it to chase a cat out of his yard.

I've just begun to explore the connections between consciousness and mudrā. I find it fascinating.