What are bandhas?
Let’s start with the basics. The word “Bandha” literally means “to lock” or “to bind” in Sanskrit. In Yoga, Bandhas are specific muscular contractions that control and direct the flow of energy (Prana) in the body. Think of them as internal locks that, when engaged, help seal in your energy, redirect it, and build momentum. Ultimately used to manage your energy!
There are three main Bandhas: Mula Bandha (root lock), Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock) and Jalandhara Bandha (throat lock). Each of them serves a specific purpose, but when practiced together, they become incredibly powerful tools for transforming your practice.
The role of bandhas in energy culture
So why bother with bandhas? Because they are the quickest way to change your energy momentum. Here’s the thing: our energy is constantly in motion, and depending on how we live, move, and think, that energy can become scattered, blocked, or even depleted. But when we engage the Bandhas, we take control and manage our energy, redirecting it inward and using it to fuel our spiritual growth.
Think of it like this: imagine your energy as a river. Without Bandhas, this river could meander all over the place, losing its power as it expands. But with Bandhas, you are essentially building a dam, focusing that energy and directing it with a specific purpose. And where do we want this energy to go? In the spine, because that’s where the magic happens.
Kundalini Activation: Unlocking Your Spiritual Potential
Now let’s move on to the really juicy stuff: Kundalini activation. If you’re unfamiliar with Kundalini, it’s the dormant spiritual energy found at the base of your spine, often symbolized by a coiled snake. Once awakened, this energy travels up the spine through the chakras, leading to heightened awareness, spiritual insight, and ultimately a heightened state of consciousness.
This is where the Bandhas come into play. By engaging the Bandhas, especially when practiced simultaneously, you can direct Prana (life energy) into the spine, creating the conditions necessary for Kundalini activation . This is no small feat, and it doesn’t happen overnight. But with consistent practice, Bandhas help prepare your body, mind, and energy for this profound experience.
How to practice bandhas
Alright, so how do you actually practice these bandhas? Let’s break it down:
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Mula Bandha (Root Lock):
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This Bandha consists of contracting the muscles of the base of the pelvis, in particular the perineum. Imagine yourself going up and down, as if trying to stop the flow of urine. Mula Bandha helps ground your energy, sealing it at the root chakra and directing it upwards.
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Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock):
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Uddiyana Bandha involves engaging the lower abdominal muscles. After fully exhaling, pull the abdomen inward and upward, creating a hollow feeling in the stomach. This Bandha draws energy from the lower chakras upward, directing it towards the heart and beyond.
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Jalandhara Bandha (Throat Lock):
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For Jalandhara Bandha, tuck your chin slightly toward your chest, lengthening your neck while keeping your spine straight. This Bandha helps contain the energy in the upper body, preventing it from escaping and instead directing it to the higher chakras.
When you practice these Bandhas together, you create a powerful energy circuit within your body. This not only helps redirect Prana down the spine, but also stabilizes your energy, making it easier to access higher states of consciousness during meditation.
The impact of bandhas on your practice
So what’s the problem with all this? Why should you care about bandhas when there are so many other aspects of yoga to focus on?
Because Bandhas take your practice to a whole new level. They make the difference between a superficial practice and a practice that deepens your energetic and spiritual potential. When you engage the Bandhas, you don’t just go through the motions: you actively work to cultivate and harness your energy in a way that supports your Dharma and your journey toward self-discovery.
And here’s the thing: once you start feeling the impact of the Bandhas in your practice, there’s no going back. You will notice that your energy is more focused, your mind is clearer, and your meditation is deeper. You might even begin to experience those moments of heightened awareness, where you see something beyond the ordinary: a connection with your higher self, your purpose, your Dharma.
Getting started with bandhas
If you are new to Bandhas, this may seem a little awkward at first. This is completely normal. Like everything in yoga, it takes practice and patience to understand. Start by integrating each Bandha into your regular practice, one at a time. Once you are comfortable with each individual Bandha, begin practicing them together, perhaps during your meditation or in specific sequences designed to direct energy toward the spine.
And remember, Bandhas are powerful tools, but they are not magic buttons. They won’t work if you just go through the motions. You must bring your awareness, intention and commitment to the practice. Only then will you begin to see the profound changes as you manage your energy through the use of Bandhas.
Join us on the journey
If you are ready to deepen your practice and start working with Bandhas, you don’t have to do it alone. At our studio, we offer classes focused on the intricacies of energy work, including how to properly involve the Bandhas in your practice. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner or just starting out, our experienced teachers will guide you through the process, helping you harness your energy and unlock your spiritual potential.
For those who can’t make it to the studio, our YL app is your go-to resource. With on-demand classes, weekly teachings, and seasonal classes, you can learn and practice Bandhas from the comfort of your home. Plus, you’ll be part of a thriving online community that’s just as engaged in their practice as you are.
So whether you’re local or joining us from afar, there’s no excuse. The tools are there, the advice is there and the growth potential is within your reach. Let’s work on harnessing your energy, activating your Kundalini and entering into your Dharma together.