This is the final in a ten-part series presented by Body & Soul on mudras, or hand gestures.

Mudra theory is based on correlations between nerve endings at the fingertips and organs of the body. The philosophy is from the ancient East although it's also seen in Christian religion with Jesus.

In Bermuda, energy healer Joan Lohan practises mudras and can offer more information and insight. She can be reached at the Healing Centre of Bermuda on 297-1220.

Linga mudra: the mudra of heat and energy

Perhaps it would have been better to have described this mudra first as it may have helped many warm themselves up in this unusually cold winter. Linga mudra increases heat in the body. It is useful not only to keep warm but also to rid the body of phlegm, bronchial infections and severe colds. Practitioners advocate its use to invigorate the body promoting general well being.

The mudra is said to create a strong internal heat that can cause you to sweat. For this reason, advocates advise you to drink extra water and fruit juice. They also warn that the position should not be overused.

To create linga mudra, interlock the fingers of both hands, keeping the thumb of the left hand vertically straight. The thumb and index of the right hand should encircle the left thumb and the position held for four to five minutes.