Bandhas (body locks)

Bandhas are locks that we can apply to the body to direct the flow of prana and apana. They protect the energy of your spine and direct the energy to where you want it to go.

The Four Main Body Locks

Neck Lock, Root Lock, Diaphragm lock and the Great Lock

Neck Lock

What: Neck Lock is the most basic and most generally applied lock. It regulates gross and subtle movement in the upper part of the body.

How: Lift the chest and sternum up while lengthening the back of the neck, by pulling the chin toward the back of the neck. Neck, throat and face muscles remain relaxed.

When: All chanting meditation, most pranayama. Breath held in or out.

Why: Concentrates the secretions of the glandular system, thereby increasing their interconnection. Regulates blood pressure. Minimizes external distractions. Seals energy in the brain stem and moon center (chin). Directs pranic energy into the central channel, calming the heart.

Root Lock

What: Root Lock is like a hydraulic lock at the base of the spine. It coordinates, stimulates, and balances the energies involved with the rectum, sex organs, and navel point (i.e. the lower three chakras).

How: Three actions are applied together in a smooth, rapid, flowing motion. First, contract and hold the muscles around the anus. Then contract and hold the muscles around the sex organ (like stopping the flow of urine). Finally, contract the muscles of the lower abdomen and the navel point toward the spine.

When: Frequently applied at the end of an exercise. Sometimes applied – continuously or rhythmically – throughout a meditation or exercise. Breath held in or out. Women on their moon cycle should not apply Root Lock.

Why: Crystallizes the effect of an exercise. Blends prana and apana at the navel center which, when mixed, opens the entrance to the sushmuna for energy to flow up the spine. Stimulates the proper flow of spinal fluid.