Pulling the locks, engaging the Bandhas.

I usually get a raised eyebrow when someone new joins my class and they're not familiar

with engaging or pulling the locks. I see them thinking 'what the heck has my anus & sexual

organs got to do with yoga?' And 'do I really want to hear my yoga teacher telling me that

it will enhance my orgasm, help with premature ejaculation & aid erectile dysfunction!!'

Well, it will do all of that and more ...

In yoga, a "bandha" is a Sanskrit term meaning 'lock, restrain, shut or close' and refers to an

energy lock or seal within the body. These locks are used to control the flow of energy (prana)

within the body during yoga practice. There are three main "bandhas," which are:

The 'Mula Bandha' is the root lock. This is the contraction of the muscles in the pelvic floor.

Engaging Mula Bandha can help to strengthen and tone the pelvic floor muscles and perineum.

It can improve bladder control, support the reproductive organs, enhance sexual function and aid

with recovery from a uterine prolapse.

The 'Uddiyana Bandha' is the belly lock, we pull the naval back towards the spine and flare the ribs.

This is the contraction of the muscles in the abdomen, specifically the transverse abdominal muscle.

Engaging Uddiyana Bandha can help to stimulate the digestive organs, increase circulation in the

abdominal area, and improve core stability.

The 'Jalandhara Bandha' is the neck lock, we tighten the neck and drop the chin.This is the

contraction of the muscles in the throat and neck area. Engaging Jalandhara Bandha can help to

regulate the thyroid gland, and promote relaxation in the nervous system.

Engaging the locks is a way to quickly hack deep

into our stress system. When practiced mindfully

on a deep inhale and held on an exhale these small

contractions can take you deep into the sensations

of the body, leaving you feeling more connected.

The 'pranic energy' or 'life force' contained within the

body is highly effective in aiding the release of tension

and stress, encouraging blood flow and increasing

pleasure. It aids detoxification of the endocrine glands

and general purification of the body. All of the bandhas have an indirect effect on the pituitary,

pineal gland and the brain. When engaged all together they have a profound effect of slowing

down respiration rate, aiding digestion and retraining confused or crossed neural circuits in the brain.

Pretty powerful stuff ... and it's a free way to take control of your stress system, enhance energetic

awareness and deepen your yoga practice!