Gopi chandana - its significance and health benefts

Gopi chandana is a type of sandalwood that is used for various purposes, such as religious, cosmetic and medicinal. It is a sacred clay that is found in the depths of Gopi Talab, a lake near Dwarka, the city of Lord Krishna. Gopi chandana has a divine fragrance and a golden color that symbolizes the devotion of the gopis of Vrindavan to Lord Krishna.

Origin 

According to the Skanda Purana, Gopi Talab is the source of Gopi chandana. The god of death frequently teaches his messengers to avoid those who utter the name of Dwarka or apply Gopi chandana on their bodies. The lake was created by Lord Krishna to fulfill the desire of the gopis who came to meet him from Vrindavan. He also proclaimed that he would stay by the lake always and take a bath in it every year on the Ekadashi day of the Shravan month along with the demigods. 

Gopi chandana is prepared by extracting the clay from the bottom of Gopi Talab. The clay blocks have chakras or marks on them that distinguish them from ordinary clay. The blocks are then dried and powdered to make Gopi chandana. The powder can be mixed with water to make a paste that can be applied on the body. 

It is used by the Madhva Hindus community, who follow the Dvaita philosophy of Madhvacharya, for various ritual purposes.

Gopi chandana mudras and their meanings

Gopi chandana mudras are hand gestures that are made with gopi chandana paste. They are applied on the body in five places while reciting mantras to Lord Vishnu. The five places are:

• Forehead: This is the most important place where the gopi chandana tilak is applied. It represents the third eye of wisdom and devotion. The tilak is usually in the shape of a U or a V, symbolizing the lotus feet of Lord Vishnu.
• Chest: This is where the gopi chandana srivatsa mudra is applied. It consists of a small circle on the right side of the chest, representing the mark (srivatsa) of Lakshmi, the consort of Lord Vishnu. The srivatsa mudra signifies that one is a devotee (bhakta) of Lord Vishnu (srivatsa).
• Arms: This is where the gopi chandana kaustubha mudra is applied. It consists of a small circle on the upper part of each arm, representing the jewel (kaustubha) of Lord Vishnu. The kaustubha mudra signifies that one is a friend (sakha) of Lord Vishnu (kaustubha).
• Wrists: This is where the gopi chandana vanamala mudra is applied. It consists of a small circle on each wrist, representing the garland (vanamala) of Lord Vishnu. The vanamala mudra signifies that one is a lover (priya) of Lord Vishnu (vanamala).
• Shoulders: This is where the gopi chandana shankha-chakra mudra is applied. It consists of two circles on each shoulder, representing the conch (shankha) and the discus (chakra) of Lord Vishnu. The shankha-chakra mudra signifies that one is a warrior (kshatriya) of Lord Vishnu (shankha-chakra).

Significance and symbolism

The gopi chandana mudras are not only decorative marks, but also have deep spiritual meanings and symbolism. They represent various aspects and attributes of Lord Vishnu, as well as his relationship with his devotees.

• The tilak on the forehead symbolizes the supreme knowledge and devotion that one should have towards Lord Vishnu. It also indicates that one has surrendered one’s ego and intellect to him.
• The srivatsa on the chest symbolizes the love and grace that Lord Vishnu bestows on his devotees. It also indicates that one has accepted him as one’s master and protector.
• The kaustubha on the arms symbolizes the power and glory that Lord Vishnu possesses and shares with his devotees. It also indicates that one has befriended him and serves him with loyalty and dedication.
• The vanamala on the wrists symbolizes the beauty and charm that Lord Vishnu displays and attracts his devotees with. It also indicates that one has adored him and enjoys his company and bliss.
• The shankha-chakra on the shoulders symbolizes the justice and victory that Lord Vishnu upholds and grants to his devotees. It also indicates that one has fought for him and follows his commands and laws.

Scientific relationship between gopi chandana mudras and health

According to Ayurveda, gopi chandana has many medicinal properties. It is said to be cooling, soothing, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-allergic. It can help in treating skin problems, fever, headache, eye disorders, mental stress, and insomnia.

The application of gopi chandana mudras on specific parts of the body can also stimulate certain nerve endings and acupressure points that are connected to various organs and systems. This can help in regulating the flow of energy (prana), blood circulation, hormonal balance, and immune system.

The practice of gopi chandana mudras can also have psychological benefits. It can help in developing concentration, confidence, calmness, and compassion. It can also help in overcoming negative emotions such as anger, fear, greed, and envy.