Bandhas

Question 1

Bandha

Answer 1

locks in the body that we engage to trap and tap into the energy of breath, feeling, movement, experiences, and chakras

Question 2

Mula Bandha

Answer 2

Root lock (the gathering up of the tailbone)

Associated postures: malasana

Question 3

Pada Bandha

Answer 3

Foot lock; three corners of the feet pressed into the ground for upward engagement such that the foot sole might lift

Associated postures: Mountain, chair

Question 4

Hasta Bandha

Answer 4

Hand lock; upward lift at the palm of the hand

Associated postures: Downward facing dog, crow, eight angle pose, headstand

Question 5

Uddiyana Bandha

Answer 5

Stomach lock; sectioning or carving up of the belly or navel

Question 6

Jalandhara Bandha

Answer 6

Chin lock - activated by tucking the chin to the chest
Brings awareness to the breath, calms the mind by locking the throat.

Associated postures:

Question 7

Maha Banda

Answer 7

Great lock; the engagement of all bandhas at once