As is the case with many Sanskrit words, the term bandha contains a multitude of meanings. In the system of Shadow Yoga (synonymous with Hatha Yoga), bandha is generally thought of as a series of openings or transfer points in the physical body, places where energy and attention can be contained, focused or released. 

We have one bandha at the throat (jalandhara bandha), one at the navel region (uddiyana bandha) and one at the pelvic floor (mula bandha). These three bandhas are considered primary bandhas (there are other, minor bandhas elsewhere in the body). In Shadow Yoga, students are taught various methods for engaging and releasing these locks through muscular activity, mental focus and physical positioning. Understanding the physical and energetic effects of bandha can help an individual conserve the life force within.

Mula Bandha - Root Lock

This article is the first in a series of three where we will explore the primary bandhas.  This first article covers mula bandha, also referred to as root lock. For our discussion, I’d like to broaden our perception of bandha beyond the physical realm, and include psycho-emotional, energetic and mental effects.

Defining Bandha

Most of us recognize yoga as more than physical fitness, and recognize it as an integrated activity that involves the body, the mind, a sense of intuition and perhaps even recognition of an animating force within. Although the translation of bandha as “lock” is commonly used today, that captures only a portion of this multidimensional concept. In order to broaden our understanding of bandha, let’s dig a little deeper into the texture and meaning of this word.

In A Sanskrit Dictionary (2013), scholar John Denton defines the root word ✓bandh as “to catch, to fasten, to restrain, to set a limit, to take up one’s abode, to bind or cause to be built.” Denton’s more expansive definition takes the meaning of bandha beyond a simple musclar action and implies its role in gathering and fortifying one’s internal energy (prana). Another term my teacher uses to describe bandha is “tie,” referring to a mechanism that can be loosened or tightened depending on the needs of the moment. I’ll use these terms, along with the word “seal,” more or less interchangeably, to keep the mind from becoming fixed on one definition. Beginning with this first article in a series of three, we’ll explore the primary bandhas (bandhatriyam) and their application in the physical, psycho-emotional and energetic spheres.

Physical Application of mula bandha

Physically, to engage bandha is to activate a body part or contract musculature in a particular area. Mula Bandha (mula = root; bandha = tie, seal) refers to contracting the muscles around the pelvic floor and anus. Contraction in this area can be activated by engaging the muscles you’d use to stop the flow of urine. Initially, you may notice that the muscles are either engaged or relaxed, without much subtlety. With practice, you’ll find that engagement is not limited to an on and off switch, but can act as a dial or valve whereby the muscles of the pelvic floor can be engaged and released to varying degrees. The physical practice of mula bandha brings tone, awareness and a feeling of containment to the base of the torso, while simultaneously providing lightness and support to the inner body. And since this region includes the actions of elimination, birth and reproduction, good function here means both the body and the mind are healthier and happier.

Psycho Emotional Application of mula bandha

Psychoemotionally, mula bandha relates to the essential (root) aspect of human experience, which is our sense of survival. Birth and reproduction (or creativity) are associated with the base of the body, and a compromised sense of safety here can interfere with healthy function elsewhere in our lives. When learned in combination with the other primary bandhas, engaging mula bandha can fortify and internalize one’s life energy. The ability to contract and relax the pelvic floor also reflects sensitivity, mental attunement and subtle awareness within the physical structure. When a person is feeling ungrounded or distracted mentally, for example, activating these delicate muscles may be elusive. 

Engaging mula bandha requires a mind that is both steady and supple, and can remain focused without frustration or agenda. As yoga practitioners, we are generally looking for ways to preserve the life force within the individual organism, and we can think of mula bandha as an important gateway where energy can be expended or conserved. 

Emotional Application Of mula bandha

From a psychological perspective, the station of mula bandha houses the emotional energy of survival and, as such, taps into root fears. Fear of anything – from the prospect of dying to being late to losing someone we love – can trigger a sense of panic or protection, which is why the energetic circuit in this area is known as muladhara chakra (wheel, or turning, at the root station). Again, gaining facility in mula bandha can create a sense of containment and security, giving us agency when we notice fears arising.

Benefits of Practicing Mula Bandha

• energy and attention can be contained, focused or released
• conserve life force within
• improve mental focus
• fortify internal energy
• muscular tone and awareness
• internal lightness and support
• self-understanding re: survival impulses
• psychological sensitivity
• physical and energetic attunement
• grounding influence on the mind
• regulating the gateway between the individual and the outside world
• internal sense of security

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Impact of Bandha In the Energetic Realm

The energetic realm is one of the most elusive and compelling aspects of the human experience: it is the realm of art, imagination, innate wisdom and the vision of the soul. It is the energetic realm which takes yoga beyond physical exercise and where – with patience and persistence – we may be lucky enough to sense something new, even if it is not recognized by others. The sacred container formed by the bandhas acts as a well from which energy is both drawn and returned. You might think of these energetic ties as valves by which life force is either lost or conserved, depending on our worldly actions. Facility with engaging (tying) or releasing (loosening) these valves relates to the type and amount of energy we retain in life. Understanding the realm of bandha is an essential part of yoga, and one of the things that differentiates it from general exercise. The ability to utilize bandha provides a layer of depth and meaning to our efforts, and illuminates the importance of a cohesive relationship between the psyche, the spirit and the intellect. Said differently, transformation in the outer world is greatly enhanced when we have access to subtleties of the inner world.

If you are interested in deepening your understanding of bandha, check back next month for part two of this series where we will cover uddiyana bandha. For yoga students in Bend or Central Oregon, you can join us for yoga classes in our Bend studio to continue your practice and deepen your understanding of the bandhas and other aspects of the energetic realm.