Demystifying Yoga: Bandhas Explained

What is a Bandha?

Bandha translates to “lock” and refers to stopping the outflow of energy and reversing it to draw inward. 

The ancient yogis recognized that there were subtle energy channels in the body, and that at certain points the energy tends to flow outward. When you engage the Bandhas you draw that energy back inward and receive benefits from that action. 

Three Main Bandhas: 

1. Jalandhara Bandha (Neck/Chin Lock): Works directly with vocal diaphragm to help promote ujjayi breath, lengthens the cervical spine, stimulates thought processing and calms the heart. 

2. Uddiyana Bandha (Diaphragm Lock): Engages the abdominal muscles, fires up the Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipur), stimulates blood circulation and improves digestion. 

3. Mula Bandha (Root/Pelvic Lock): Engages the pelvis muscles, creates a solid foundation for the spine, taps into the Root Chakra (Muladhara), which helps us feel grounded.  

Being conscious of these bandhas throughout class can help you deepen your practice and provide new found benefits. Your Corepower Yoga Teacher can show you poses and small adjustments to engage each bandha. Find a class and give it a go!