The Bandhas

Yoga teachers mention bandhas all the time in class, but how many of us truly understand what they are and how to incorporate them into our practice? Bandha is the Sanskrit word for lock, or seal. In yoga, these locks assist us in our asana and pranayama practices to help tone, energize and cleanse our body and organs. Done properly, they ensure better alignment in postures, protecting us from strain and injury.

In this session, Sarah breaks down the three specific interior body locks: Mula Bandha (Root Lock,) Uddiyana Bandha (Naval or Abdominal Lock,) and Jalandara Banda (Throat Lock.) Activating all three at once is referred to as Maha Bandha, or the great lock. Enjoy!

Category:

Howto & Style

Tags:

• fitness
• health

[freebrook]

another informative and awesome job!

[amitbossataol]

I have been practicing yoga for 12 years, still can't do moola bandha. I am sorry your instructions didn't help me.

[AlitheaNara]

It helped me, thank you! Awesome video about Bandhas!

[occultistLHP]

She has a good body. :P

[sethkane68]

@amitbossataol - Mula Banda - for women while seated on on a commode empty your bladder with a nonforced flow. Contract the muscle to interupt the flow. Remember the sensation on contracting this muscle.

[snowgrouse]

This wasn't a really clear explanation of mula bandha, I fear. I know how it's done, but I was looking for a video to show others how it's done, and if they don't know how to do a Kegel exercise, they won't have a clue of what this is about. It would've been far simpler to say "pull up the bit between your genitalia and your anus"--but I guess saying even that is too shocking to some people, even when anatomical accuracy is needed to get it right.

[klausklauser]

@amitbossataol. actualy mula bandha happens spontainius. you just have to take a deep breath. make your lungs really full.then let all the air out. out. out.. and be aware of how deep your outbreathing goes.

you will see that it goes down to mula. and if you really have breathed out, mula bandha happens. just because its natural. if you have done that some times you get used to it. and can do it without breathing. :)

[fluff1378]

I've been taught to do Uddiyana Banda in a standing position. What is thw best way to do it?

Great job explain things. I am new to yoga and I find your videos very helpful. Thanks

[afrizak]

Loved that. Really liked the clear and precise delivery of instructions!