"Shankha", comes from Sanskrit, meaning Conch
AS A SYMBOL IN KOLAM :
The conch shell is thought to have been the original horn-trumpet
Ancient Indian mythical epics relate heroes carrying conch shells
As a symbol,
the conch is the promise of a primordial sound,
purifing air through his music,
able to go through all obstacles,
attracting positive energy,
evoking strength
In Buddhism it is one of the 8 auspicious symbols,
this one representing Buddha’s teachings on Fearlessness
AS A MUDRA :
How to do :
Place your hands in front of you with the palms facing up
Wrap the right fingers around the left thumb
Bring the fingers of the left hand together
Bring the left middle finger to touch the tip of the right hand thumb
Rest your hands on the sternum
Imagine you are at the sea and you can hear the waves and feel the sea breeze
Chant “OM” several times
Allowing the echo and vibration of your chanting to center and calm your mind
Benefits:
Related to :
the health of the respiratory system
the balance of the throat chakra
the "cooling" of the fire element: agitation, burn, inflammation, overheated body and mind