Anjali Mudra: Meaning, How to Do It, and Its Connection to Namaste

Anjali Mudra — palms pressed together at the chest — is likely the most universally recognized mudra, even by people who’ve never heard the term, since it’s the physical gesture behind Namaste. See What Are Mudras? for the broader tradition this fits within.

How it’s formed

Bring the palms together at the center of the chest, fingers pointing upward, with light, even pressure between the hands — not gripped tightly, but firm and steady. The elbows relax down rather than winging out to the sides.

What it means

Anjali means “offering” in Sanskrit, and the gesture is traditionally understood as bringing the two sides of the body — often read as representing the individual self and a shared, universal consciousness — into a single point of union at the heart. This is the same symbolic reading behind the word Namaste; see Namaste Meaning for the fuller explanation of how the word and gesture work together.

When it’s used

Anjali Mudra is used at the start or close of a yoga practice as a gesture of respect and settling intention, and more broadly as the physical form of the Namaste greeting in everyday life. It’s also commonly held briefly at the heart during moments of prayer or gratitude, independent of a formal yoga practice.

Common questions

What does “Anjali Mudra” mean?

“Offering gesture” — anjali meaning offering, referring to the palms brought together as if presenting something at the heart.

Is Anjali Mudra the same as Namaste?

Anjali Mudra is the physical gesture; Namaste is the spoken word usually said while making it. See Namaste Meaning for the full explanation of both together.

When is Anjali Mudra typically used?

At the start or close of a yoga practice, and more broadly as the gesture accompanying the Namaste greeting in daily life.

Does Anjali Mudra require any skill to practice?

No — it’s one of the simplest gestures in yoga, requiring no flexibility or prior experience.