Mudra Bandha: Mula, Jalandhara, Uddiyana, Maha Vedha, Viparitakarani, Khechari, Vajroli, Yoni - Shakti Chalana

Classical hatha and Tantric texts describe a progression of mudras and bandhas, internal locks and gestures, traditionally used alongside pranayama and meditation to direct subtle energy: mula bandha, jalandhara bandha, uddiyana bandha, maha vedha, viparita karani, khechari mudra, vajroli mudra, and yoni mudra. These range from widely accessible foundational locks to advanced techniques requiring direct, in-person teacher guidance.

An Important Note on This Article's Scope

The techniques covered here span a wide range of physical and energetic demand. Mula bandha, jalandhara bandha, and yoni mudra are broadly accessible with reasonable practice. Uddiyana bandha and viparita karani require more caution and often teacher guidance. Khechari mudra and vajroli mudra are classical advanced techniques that this article deliberately describes at the level of concept, purpose, and prerequisite, rather than step-by-step self-instruction, since traditional sources are consistent that they are learned in person from a qualified teacher.

The Foundational Locks

Mula bandha: the root lock

Mula bandha involves a gentle contraction at the base of the pelvic floor, traditionally used to help stabilise and direct energy upward during pranayama and meditation, and is generally accessible to most practitioners with guided practice.

Jalandhara bandha: the chin lock

Jalandhara bandha involves gently drawing the chin toward the chest, traditionally used during breath retention to protect the throat and support the upward flow of subtle energy.

Uddiyana bandha: the abdominal lock

Uddiyana bandha involves drawing the abdomen inward and upward after exhalation, traditionally practised on an empty stomach and approached gradually, since it involves a more significant physical action than the other basic bandhas.

More Advanced Techniques

Maha vedha: the great piercing lock

Maha vedha is a classical combination technique building on the three foundational bandhas together, traditionally introduced only once each individual lock is already stable and comfortable on its own.

Viparita karani: the inverted action

Viparita karani refers to a gentle inverted posture combined with specific breath awareness, traditionally used to support the redirection of energy, and generally practised with appropriate caution around neck and spinal positioning.

Khechari Mudra: Foundations Only

Khechari mudra is a classical advanced technique involving specific tongue positioning, traditionally described in Tantric texts as requiring extensive preparatory practice over an extended period and direct guidance from an experienced teacher. This article intentionally does not provide self-practice instructions for this technique, consistent with its traditional framing as something learned in person, not from a written description.

Vajroli and Yoni Mudra

Vajroli mudra, covered in more detail in a dedicated article on this site, is a classical advanced Tantric technique requiring extensive prerequisite practice and direct teacher instruction, and is not something this article provides self-practice steps for.

Yoni mudra, by contrast, is a widely accessible sensory-withdrawal technique involving gently closing the eyes, ears, and other sensory openings with the hands to turn attention inward, generally suitable for most practitioners as an introduction to pratyahara.

Mohan Chute's Teaching Note

I am consistently direct with students about the difference between foundational and advanced techniques in this list. Mula bandha, jalandhara bandha, and yoni mudra are genuinely accessible starting points. Khechari and vajroli are not something I would ever teach through writing alone, and I would encourage any student genuinely curious about them to seek a qualified, experienced teacher in person.

There is no shortage of depth available through the accessible techniques alone. Most students benefit enormously from years of foundational practice before advanced techniques become relevant, if they ever do.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I learn khechari or vajroli mudra safely from this article or a video?

No, these are classical advanced techniques traditionally taught only in person by a qualified teacher after extensive prerequisite practice. This article covers them for educational context only.

Which of these techniques is safest for a beginner?

Yoni mudra and mula bandha are generally the most accessible starting points for most practitioners.

Do I need to master all eight techniques to progress in Kundalini practice?

No, classical texts describe these as a progression, not a checklist. Many practitioners build a lifelong practice around just the foundational locks.

Why does uddiyana bandha need to be practised on an empty stomach?

The abdominal drawing action involved can cause discomfort or strain if practised after eating, so it is traditionally reserved for an empty stomach, ideally in the morning.

Who should avoid these techniques entirely?

Anyone who is pregnant, has significant abdominal or spinal conditions, recent surgery, or uncontrolled high blood pressure should consult a healthcare provider and an experienced teacher before attempting any of these techniques, particularly the bandhas and inversions.