Hatha Yoga has different limbs, and among them, Bandhas hold a significant position. These are secretive practices suggested to be performed only by advanced practitioners of yoga, who intend to move beyond the materialistic world and understand one’s self.
What are Bandhas?
Bandhas are advanced practices of Yoga aimed at spiritual awakening. Bandha in Sanskrit means "lock." In yoga, Bandhas refers to the energy locks that restrict the flow of pranic energy to specific intended areas.
These are higher practices and are only practiced once the practitioner masters other Hatha Yogic practices such as Asanas and Pranamaya. Bandhas are also smaller in number compared to other limbs. And, according to the Hatha yogic texts, Bandhas are always mentioned to be followed with or as part of Mudras. The practice of Bandhas is advised for higher accomplishments in yoga, so these are not allowed for beginners in Hatha Yoga.
Different kinds of Bandhas
Bandhas help to lock, hold, or redirect energy to certain areas of the body. There are mainly three Bandhas. These are:
Mulabandha (Root lock)
Uddiyana Bandha (Abdominal lock)
Jalandhara Bandha (Throat lock)
Significance of Bandhas
Initial limbs of yoga, such as asanas, can be performed for specific physical or mental benefits. However, Bandhas are to be performed only if the practitioner has higher goals in mind. This is practiced only by those who have thorough knowledge and experience in asana and pranayama practices.
In the third chapter of Gheranda Samhita, the sage mentions that the practice of Bandhas should be performed by only those practitioners, who want to transcend the web of materialistic life and reach the higher realm of consciousness. He suggests practicing it in an isolated place. The Sage further says that with regular practice, one attains pranayama siddhi. So, putting in effort, he calls to practice Bandha silently, without any laziness.
Why are Bandhas an Advanced Practice?
Aspirants should have flexibility, muscle strength, and the ability to use selective muscle groups during Bandhas. They should also be able to hold a particular asana for a longer duration to bring contraction to certain muscles to attain specific results. These are only possible through the perfection of the lower limbs of Hatha yoga and consistent yoga practice.
Benefits of Bandhas
Tranquility of Mind: When the Bandhas are applied, the contraction or firmness results in pressure on the neck, abdomen, and perineum regions. This causes the prana to generate a throbbing sensation in the body, which ultimately reaches the brain. This helps the practitioner achieve a peaceful and equanimous state of mind.
Stimulates organs and glands: When applied, Bandhas energize muscle tissues and activate organs and glands in that region.
Smooth flow of pranic energy: Bandhas lock the energy flow and stimulate the functioning of chakras, which further results in the smooth and effective flow of pranic energy.
Helps in Pranayama: Apana and Prana vayu are united mainly through Bandhas. Bandhas are indispensable while practicing pranayama, without which pranayama becomes just a breathing exercise.
Bandhas, like other yogic practices, should be practiced only under the guidance of expert practitioners, or Acharya.
Comments