Bandha
Also known as: Yogic Lock, Energy Lock
Sanskrit: bandha, meaning lock, bond, or contraction.
A bandha is a muscular lock or contraction used in yoga and pranayama to direct the flow of prana, stabilize the body during a pose, or intensify a breathing practice. The three most commonly taught are Mula Bandha at the pelvic floor, Uddiyana Bandha at the abdomen, and Jalandhara Bandha at the throat.
Bandhas are traditionally taught progressively and under supervision, since Uddiyana Bandha in particular is practiced on an empty stomach and is contraindicated during pregnancy, menstruation, and for certain abdominal or cardiovascular conditions. In modern practice, a gentle form of Mula Bandha is often introduced early as a core-stabilizing engagement, while the fuller classical versions are reserved for more advanced pranayama and kriya work.
Three primary bandhas are traditionally taught: Mula Bandha (root lock, engaging the pelvic floor), Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock, drawing the belly in and up) and Jalandhara Bandha (throat lock, chin toward the chest), with Maha Bandha combining all three at once. Classical texts describe these as redirecting subtle energy upward through the central channel; a more cautious, body-based framing recognizes genuine core and pelvic-floor engagement effects, and because these techniques involve real physical locks near sensitive areas, they are traditionally taught in person by a qualified teacher rather than self-practiced from a written description alone.
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Related Terms
Mudra
A mudra is a symbolic hand or body gesture used in yoga, meditation, and classical Indian dance to direct energy, seal a physical or energetic state, or express a specific meaning. In yogic practice, mudras are often combined with pranayama and meditation to influence the flow of prana, the body's vital energy.
Kriya
Kriya refers to a specific, structured technique or sequence of practices, such as breathing patterns, movements, chanting, or cleansing exercises, designed to produce a defined effect on the body, mind, or subtle energy. It ranges from simple cleansing exercises to complex Kundalini Yoga sequences taught by a teacher.