Maha Bandha, often referred to as "the great lock," is a significant practice within yoga that combines three distinct bandhas: Mula Bandha, Uddiyana Bandha, and Jalandhara Bandha. This integrated technique is designed to enhance energy flow and is considered a fundamental principle in various yogic traditions, particularly Ashtanga Yoga. The practice involves a precise sequence of muscular contractions and postural adjustments that aim to create
a powerful internal seal, believed to direct and conserve vital energy within the body.
Components of the Great Lock
The Maha Bandha is a composite practice, meaning it is formed by the simultaneous execution of three individual locks. The first component is Mula Bandha, which involves the contraction of the perineal body. This root lock is described as a contraction of the region of the lower abdomen from the anus to the navel, pulling it towards the spine and up to the diaphragm. It is likened to a Kegel exercise and is said to prevent energy from leaking out at the base of the spine, moving prana into the central channel known as sushumna.
The second element is Uddiyana Bandha, characterized by the contraction of the abdomen into the rib cage. This abdominal lock involves drawing the belly inward and upward, creating a vacuum-like effect. It is believed to push energy upwards through the sushumna, the main energy channel along the spine. This bandha is also thought to counteract the descent of abdominal organs.
Finally, Jalandhara Bandha, or the chin lock, completes the trio. This is performed by extending the neck and elevating the sternum before dropping the head so that the chin rests on the chest. Simultaneously, the tongue pushes up against the palate in the mouth. The name Jalandhara comes from Sanskrit words meaning "web or net" and "holding," suggesting its role in containing energy in the upper body and preventing its escape upwards.
Energetic and Spiritual Significance
The combined practice of Maha Bandha is considered an advanced exercise in some yogic traditions, particularly for its role in awakening Kundalini energy. The Gorakṣaśataka, a 12th-century text, describes Mula Bandha as a technique to achieve mastery of breath and awaken the goddess Kundalini. It explains that the downward-moving apāna breath is forced upwards by contraction, and when it reaches the orb of fire, the flame rises, fanned by the wind. This overheated prāṇa then creates a blaze that heats and awakens the sleeping Kundalini, causing it to straighten and enter the Brahmā nāḍī.
Iyengar further elaborates on the energetic aspects, defining Mula Bandha as a "safety-valve" during breath retention (kumbhakas). He states that Apāna Vāyu, the downward-flowing prāṇa in the lower abdomen, is made to flow up to unite with Prāṇa Vāyu, which resides in the chest. The practice of Mula Bandha is also seen as an attempt to reach the true source or mūla of creation. When all three bandhas are engaged in Maha Bandha, the intention is to create a powerful energetic circuit, directing and intensifying the flow of prana for spiritual development.
Maha Bandha in Ashtanga Yoga and Beyond
In Ashtanga Yoga, these three bandhas are considered one of the three key principles of yoga practice. Their consistent application is integral to the vinyasa system, linking breath and movement. The practice of Maha Bandha is not only found in Hatha Yoga but also holds significance in other spiritual philosophies. For instance, in Ananda Marga, Maha Bandha is listed among various mudras and bandhas in their texts, indicating its inclusion in their system of practices for personal development and transformation. The comprehensive nature of Maha Bandha, integrating physical posture with subtle energy control, underscores its importance as a powerful tool in yogic and spiritual disciplines.
