Mudra & Bandha

Research Maha Bandha (the great lock) & Trataka technique & explore how effects blood pressure & contraindications & benefits.

Maha bandha is the fourth bandha. The first three are Mula bandha (base/root lock), Uddiyana bandha (abdominal lift lock) and Jalandhara bandha (throat lock). The bandha’s are locks that help contain Pranic energy within the body and redirect its flow. Maha bandha is simply the combination of the first three locks actively used simultaneously. Maha bandha creates heat in the body and precautions must be taken when practicing this technique for instance persons with high blood pressure should avoid this as the compression and excess heat created could impact these conditions. Women who are pregnant can practice Mula bandha as this can actual help strengthen the base muscles which help support the excess pressure from carrying a baby. Additionally having strenghtened these muscles will help the mother once she has given birth, reducing the chances of bladder weakness and so on. Pregnant women should not practice Uddiyana bandha or Jalandhara bandas as these can create to much internal heat and pressure on the uterus.

The benefits of practicing the bandhas are as follows:
COMBINED BENEFITS:
• Restorative
• Increased energy through conservation, containing & redirecting energy
• Strengthening & lengthening
• Improves overall function of all bodily systems

MULA BANDHA
• Protects the muscles of the lower back & helps hinging action in forward bends
• Helps contain energy & reduce leakage of pranha
• Potentially enhances sexual experience

UDDIYANA BANDHA
• Internal massage of the digestive tract & organs
• Strengthens & lengthens the abdominal muscles creating space for the organs & helping to protect the back muscles through support & stability
• Upward lifting action assists the compression of the diaphragm against the inhalation pressure of the lungs
• Helps lymph move to its major organs

JALANDHARA BANDHA
• Squeezes into the Thyroid & para-thyroid aiding there functioning & can assist in regulating hormone production & energizing
• This final lock full assists the trapping of energy in the body building heat and increasing pressure
• Assists the spine to lengthen and release to help the pranic current flow easily up the spine, this is also good for the function of the CNS

Trataka technique
The Trataka technique is a form of meditation it involves centering one awareness on an object such as a candle whilst meditating. So one focuses the eyes on the object and gently gazing at it one settles into a meditative state. This is a great technique for beginners as it encourages single pointed awareness and focused concentration. This technique can improve eyesight and the optic function.