Answer this question to the best of your ability:
How does hand placement in meditation differ between Eastern and Western practices?
In Eastern practices, hand placement during meditation is guided by the use of mudras or specific hand positions which are believed to help balance the flow of energy within the body. These mudras are deeply rooted in traditional yoga and Buddhist teachings and serve a symbolic purpose as well. For example, 'Dhyana Mudra' is said to unite the active and receptive aspects of oneself, while 'Chin Mudra' signifies the connection between the ego and higher self.

In contrast, Western practices tend to be more flexible in terms of hand placement during meditation. The primary focus here is on finding a comfortable position for the hands, usually resting them on the knees or lap, with palms facing up or down. The idea is to create an environment that allows the meditator to relax and focus without unnecessary distractions from hand discomfort.