बन्ध

Bandhas

The energy locks of Haṭha Yoga. Contraction and sealing techniques that direct the flow of prāṇa and prepare the body for the awakening of kuṇḍalinī.

The bandhas (literally "locks" or "bonds") are specific muscular contractions that seal different regions of the body, containing and redirecting vital energy. The Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā considers them essential for advanced prāṇāyāma practice and the awakening of kuṇḍalinī śakti.

According to classical texts, when the three main bandhas are applied together (Mahā Bandha), prāṇa is forced to enter suṣumṇā nāḍī, the central channel. This is a prerequisite for higher states of meditation and samādhi.

Bandhas are traditionally practiced during breath retention (kumbhaka), though gentle versions can be integrated into āsana practice and daily life.

The three bandhas and Mahā Bandha

1
जालन्धर बन्ध

Jālandhara Bandha

The net-holding lock

Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 3.70-75 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 3.12-13

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2
उड्डीयान बन्ध

Uḍḍīyāna Bandha

The upward flying lock

Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 3.55-60 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 3.10-11

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3
मूल बन्ध

Mūla Bandha

The root lock

Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 3.61-69 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 3.14-17

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4
महा बन्ध

Mahā Bandha

The great lock

Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā 3.19-25 · Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 3.18-20

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Bandhas in practice

Learning order

  1. 1. Mūla Bandha — The foundation, most subtle
  2. 2. Uḍḍīyāna Bandha — Most physical and evident
  3. 3. Jālandhara Bandha — Natural in kumbhaka
  4. 4. Mahā Bandha — All three together

Classical sources