47   VARADA MUDRA  (Gesture of granting wishes or mercy)

Point the left hand downward and turn the palm to the front. Place the right hand on your lap or thigh.
This mudra is a preferred gesture in the depiction of Hindu gods. As the name indicates, this is a matter of forgiveness and mercy. Moreover, the believers hope that God will bless them richly—fulfill their wishes. This is aptly expressed. Someone who gives will be forgiven, someone who forgives will be richly blessed. Forgiveness always also means being able to forgive yourself. To forgive yourself and others is certainly the most difficult thing one can ask of a person. But it is truly the most wonderful thing when we succeed at it. The forgiving open hand is then filled with new riches, both inner and outer. I speak from experience here and can warmly recommend the “art of forgiveness” to you. Perhaps it may be difficult for you at first; if so, ask the divine force that lives within you for help.

It is also important to know that the intensive work of forgiveness should not be done throughout the entire year—that would wear us down too much. But it fits wonderfully into a spring or autumn detoxification program.