Bandha
The Jalandhar Bandha, or Chin Lock, is a powerful and intense body lock. The pose combines pranayama breathing exercises with a medium physical feat to complete its purpose. Engaging the skeletal and back muscles at once, the bandha lock offers a wealth of health and physical benefits.
Moreover, this spiritual and physical movement is sublimely important to your practice. The lock focuses your attention on the major channels that exist within your body. It engages your fifth chakra center and allows the flow of energy through the channels.
To yield its full effects, the student should practice the bandha on a regular basis. When you first begin engaging in this bandha, you should practice it on its own. However, as you move forward in your learning, you will be able to add the Jalandhar Bandha to a sequence. You can also combine it with pranayama exercises, mudras, and other bandhas.
Benefits of This Meditation
May help to support the metabolism
Allows for a period of meditation
Tones the neck and back muscles
Increases levels of innate focus
Improves flexibility within the body
Strengthens the body and mind
Helps regulate circulation and respiration
Encourages relaxation and calmness
Activates the fifth chakra center
Increases energy and revitalizes
Awakens kundalini power
How to do Jalandhar Bandha
It is recommended that you repeat the following lock three times per round. However, if you are a beginner, you may need to build up to this level.
Directions
- Start in the siddhasana or sukasana seated position. Your legs should be crossed and your palms need to face downward onto your knees. Rest your hands.
- Roll the spine upward so that it is straight and relax the shoulders. There should be no tension in the upper part of your body.
- Close your eyes as a part of this bandha. After you have done so, you can begin to focus on your breathing. Each breath should be deep and calm.
- Breathe in deeply, allowing your lungs to almost fill. Hold your breath.
- As you do so, move your chin down toward your chest. Your neck should be straight and not curved at this point.
- Gently roll your shoulders forward as far as they will go. This movement allows you to reach the full bandha lock position. Hold the pose for as long as you can.
- When you have finished, you should bring your chin slowly upward. Breathe out through your nostrils as you do so.
- Take a moment to steady your breathing before repeating the process three times.
Beginner’s Tip: The Jalandhar Bandha is all about precision. Take the time to ensure that your back and neck are straight before completing the lock.
