The
Bandhas are the locks applied to specific areas of the body. When applied
correctly, these locks can direct the apana and prana towards the higher energy
centers. The locks are fundamental techniques that can create a cumulative effect
in the practitioner. Over time, when used appropriately, these locks will allow
the practitioner to steadily accumulate and build the energetic frequency
within the physical body thus achieving movement towards the Divine.
The
locks or bandhas have been
described in numerous yoga texts. The 3 main locks are Mul Bhandh, Uddiyan
Bandh, and Jalander Bandh. What about that 4th lock? Well, when all
3 main locks are applied simultaneously,
then you achieve the 4th lock, which is called Maha Bandh or the
great seal. The bandhas are fundamental to
Kundalini Yoga and are used in specific sequences of poses in Kundalini Yoga Kriyas
(or sets of sequenced yoga poses). With continued practice, like many things,
using these locks to rapidly raise the energy towards the higher energy centers
becomes faster, easier and more powerful. One way to experience this cumulative
effect is to keep a journal as you master the bandhas and benefit from their
powerful effects. Continued practice of applying
the bandhas will help you clear energetic blocks that resist the rising of
Kundalini energy through your physical body and chakras (a subject for another
post!).
Now…the Goods!
Mulbandh – The Root Lock
Mulbandh is applied at the base of the spine like a hydraulic lock
squeezing the sex organs and anus up towards the higher centers. When applied,
and strengthened over time, it activates and balances the lower chakra
energies. This energy is associated with the rectum (1st Chakra),
sex organs (2nd Chakra), and navel point (3rd Chakra). Application
of mulbandh redirects excess sexual energy into healing and creativity. In fact,
it has been written in ancient yogic texts that this lock can revitalize youth
thus reducing the effects of old age on the practioner! In Kundalini Yoga Kriyas,
mulbandh is often applied at the end of yogic poses to help strengthen and
stabilize the effects of the pose.
What are the energetic mechanics of this lock?
Applying
mulbandh blends the prana and apana
at the navel center. Mulbandh redirects the apana
(from its normal course downward to the 1st Chakra) toward the navel
center where it joins the downward flow of prana energy at the navel.
When prana and apana meet, tapas or inner heat is created, which
then opens the entrance to the sushmuna, the central channel. This allows the
Kundalini energy to flow up the spine.
An
excellent Kriya meditation to feel the power of mulbandh is Tershula Kriya or Thunderbolt of Shiva. This kriya
directly activates the Kundalini energy by rhythmically applying and releasing
mulbandh with a pranayam, mantra, and simultaneous visualization. If interested,
you are welcome to email me for instructions on this specific kriya!
Udiyanbandh – The Diaphragm Lock
Udiyanbandh is the 2nd (and probably the most misunderstood) lock,
which is centered around the navel. To activate this lock you pull the
diaphragm and the upper part of the abdomen up and back towards the spine. One
should only fully apply udiyanbandh
at the bottom of an exhalation. (Note: In contrast, one should not apply a
vigorous udiyanbandh on a full inhale since doing so will put too much pressure on the thoracic
cavity. Alternatively, it is ok to engage the abdominal area on a full inhale,
but not pull up and in). To be most effective udiyanbandh should be applied
with the stomach muscles completely relaxed. In fact, the more relaxed the
better.
Proper and consistent practice of this lock can increase the blood supply to the
intraperitoneal organs (i.e. stomach, small intestines, spleen, liver, etc.)
and the microcirculation around the heart. Yoga and proper diet have been linked
throughout the ages and, as such, it shouldn’t be surprising that udiyanbandh
can also facilitate digestive enzyme release via exocrine gland secretions from
the pancreas and stomach into the digestive lumen tract. Note: This is very
similar to how hydrotherapy (that’s cold showers!) can increase the secretions
of endocrine hormones within the body.
Caution: Persons suffering from stomach issues,
heart problems, or defective blood circulation should not attempt to perform a
full udiyanbandh, as it can create too much internal pressure in these
individuals.
What are the energetic mechanics of this lock?
Similarly to the physical effects, proper application of udiyanbandh can
activate the fire element, the element of transformation. The fire element also
relates to the heart (in Chinese medicine). Not surprisingly then, udiyanbandh
can activate the Kundalini Shakti (or power) as the prana is easily directed upwards through the sushumana or central
channel. Proper activation of this lock can have a rejuvenating effect on the
entire body leaving the practioner with a sense of playfulness in their life
and a deep connection with one’s cosmic plan.
Udiyanbandh is often used in rhythmic chanting. An excellent Kriya
meditation to feel the beneficial effect of this lock is the Indra Nittri
Meditation! If interested, you are welcome to email me for proper instructions
on how to perform this specific kriya!
Julandharbandh – The Neck Lock
This is a gentle neck lock, which can easily be achieved by slightly
tucking the chin while elongating the back of the neck. In general, julandharbandh
is applied during most chanting meditations and pranayama exercises. This lock
can prevent unwanted changes in blood pressure caused by pranayam or yogic
asanas and thus prevent unnecessary dizziness. The force of applying this lock is felt on the spinal cord
and with this force; the circulation of blood increases thereby increasing the
efficiency of the spinal cord.
Failing to apply julandharbandh can cause excess energy to flow to the
ears, eyes or other places in the head rather than up and into the brain. Sealing
this energy into the upper areas of your brain makes it easier to focus
and meditate. It also helps you maintain better spinal posture!
Julandharbandh literally means to destroy any pain in the throat. It has
been written in ancient texts that this lock can eliminate old age and destroy
death! Performing julandharbandh also gives peace and calmness to the heart and the mind.
What are the energetic mechanics of this lock?
Julandharbandh
can help to untie
the knot of Shiva. The knot of Shiva or gateway is located at your brow point
or Ajna (6th) Chakra. When the energetic knot of Shiva is untied and
flowing, you will feel free and timeless. In this state, you can experience the
Divine essence. When you are deeply engaged in chanting a divine mantra, with
julandharbandh engaged, you can experience otherworldly sensations such as a
deep knowing, a profound understanding and even sacred visions!
Julandharbandh is used in almost
all chanting and pranayam type exercises. An excellent way to experience this
particular bandh is by chanting your favorite mantra whilst engaging and
releasing this lock (gently) to experience the difference that it brings! An
excellent kriya meditation for this experience is the Wahe Guru mantra we chant
during the Aquarian Sadhana. If interested, you are welcome to email me for proper instructions on
how to perform this specific kriya!
Bonus – Engaging julandharbandh
also helps contain the energy of the Moon Center at the chin!
Mahabandh – The Great Lock
The great lock is the application of all three previous locks
simultaneously, with the breath held out. In general, it is practiced at the
end of either asanas or pranayams.
With mahabandh engaged consciously and correctly the body is in a perfect
healing state. The glands, nerves and chakras are rejuvenated. The healing
effects of this lock help with menstrual cramps and poor circulation. Mastery
of mahabandh can cure improper blood pressure, irregularity, wet dreams, and
excessive preoccupation with mental fantasies!
Summary
Hopefully you now have a much better grasp of the energetic locks of
Kundlaini Yoga and feel free to start practicing right now! An excellent way to
practice Mulbandh is by engaging this lock to temporarily stop the flow of
urine when eliminating. This will give you immediate biofeedback about whether
or not you are successfully applying this lock.
In Kundalini Yoga classes most teachers assume that students have a basic
understanding of these locks, but if you are unsure and need more help
understanding them don’t hesitate to ask the teacher.
To your success,
Prabhusukh Singh PhD**Prabhusukh teaches a donation based Community Kundalini Yoga class at The Little Yoga Studio on Sundays at 8:00am.
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