KUNDALINI YOGA BANDHS - LOCKS
Guru Prem Singh Khalsa was called the "Posture Master of Kundalini Yoga" by Yogi Bhajan. He is an excellent resource for correct posture and technique in Kundalini Yoga. Watch these videos as he demonstrates the correct way to do the Bandh (Locks).
THE BANDHS - LOCKS
The Bandhas - Locks are gateways to developing core strength, sensitivity, and subtlety and are fundamental to Kundalini Yoga. The practice of the three body locks bring both depth and effectiveness to yoga practice.
The locks, specific contractions of core areas of the body, are indicated in many Kundalini Yoga meditations and kriyas (sequenced yoga exercise sets). Applying the body locks properly will help you clear blockages that impede the open flow of energy through your physical body, Chakras, and subtle bodies.
With a steady flow of energy, you can bring harmony and balance to your life, you can have access to your core values, and you can express yourself with integrity. Applying the body locks heightens your awareness. See video.
Mul (Mool) Bandh- Root Lock as taught by Yogi Bhajan
Root Lock is frequently used and closes off the lower 3 chakras and allows the kundalini energy to rise.
To apply Root Lock:
Contract the muscles of the rectum, the sex organs and the navel point ...
Pulling in and up on the navel. See video.
Uddiyana Bandh Navel Lock as taught by Yogi Bhajan
DIAPHRAGM OR NAVEL LOCK Uddiyana Bandh
Diaphragm Lock: Here, your diaphragm muscle forms both a physical and energetic barrier between your heart and your lower torso. Below this barrier are your lower Chakras, the ones that relate to behaviors that are more unconscious or reactive. Above this barrier are your upper Chakras, the ones that relate to behaviors that are more conscious and aware.
To apply Diaphragm Lock:
Be sure you do not have a full stomach.
Apply this lock only with your breath fully exhaled - holding your breath out.
Sit comfortably with a straight spine.
Inhale deeply and exhale completely through the nose. Hold the breath out.
Pull your entire abdominal region, especially the area above your belly button, back toward your spine.
Keep your chest lifted and do not allow your chest to collapse downward.
Press the lower thoracic spine forward gently.
Keep the lift strongly applied for 10-60 seconds, according to your ability, without strain, and maintain a concentrated sense of calm. See Cautionary Note.
Release the lock by relaxing your abdomen and gradually inhaling.
Diaphragm Lock, Uddiyana Bandh, helps to strengthen your digestion by increasing the fire element, the element of transformation in your abdominal region. This helps your heart center - your Heart Chakra - to open and flow with energy. When your Heart Chakra is open, you have the ability to be sensitive, compassionate, and kind.
NOTE: Uddiyana Bandh correctly and consciously done, is said to "untie the Knot of Vishnu," The knot of Vishnu is located at the Heart Chakra, the area of your rib cage, heart, lungs and thymus gland. When the energy is no longer knotted at this center, but is flowing and open, it is said you can feel the playfulness of your life, and the larger cosmic plan with perspective and relaxation.
Jalandar Banda Neck Lock as taught by Yogi Bhajan
Neck Lock
Jalandhar Bandh
Neck Lock is a basic lock applied, unless you are moving the head, as in neck rolls, or are otherwise instructed. Apply the neck lock during most pranayam, breath control, practices and meditations, and while chanting.
To apply Neck Lock:
Sit comfortably with a straight spine.
Lift your chest and sternum upward.
Stretch the back of your neck gently straight by pulling the chin in toward the back of the neck.
Keep your head level and centered without tilting forward or to either side.
Keep the muscles of your face, neck, and throat as relaxed as you can.
Neck Lock is automatically applied by the shift of relative position between the chin and chest. Do not force your head forward or down.
When you apply the neck lock, you allow your neck to be open and maintain its natural structure, which helps you maintain better spinal posture in general. The neck lock also "seals" the energy that is generated in the upper areas of your brain stem, so it becomes easier to focus and meditate.
NOTE: Jalandhar Bhand, applied consciously and correctly, is said to help "untie the Knot of Shiva." This 'knot' or gateway is located at your brow point. When the energy of this knot is untied and flowing, you feel free of time and space. You associate yourself with the timelessness and non-duality of the soul and the Divine essence.
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