Bandha, Mudra, & Pranayama Manual © Celia Roberts

Images and information have been sourced from Swami Satyanand Saraswati Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha (1996).

This manual and the information contained within it is not to be copied, replicated, or distributed without permission. Bandha We use Bhandas in practice to contain or lock prana in certain regions of the body. Bandha means to lock, close-off or to stop. In the practice of a Bandha, the energy-flow to a particular area of the body is blocked. When the Bandha is released, this causes the energy to flood more strongly through the body with an increased pressure. As the Bandhas momentarily stop the flow of blood; there is an increased flow of fresh blood with the release of the Bandha. In this way all the organs are strengthened, renewed and rejuvenated, and circulation is improved.

Bandhas are also beneficial for the brain centres. The Chakras and Nadi energy channels are purified, blockages released and the exchange of energy is improved. Bandhas alleviate stress and mental restlessness and bring about inner harmony and balance. There are four types of Bandhas:

Moola Bandha – Perineal Lock Uddiyana Bandha - Lifting of the Diaphragm, Abdominal Lock Jalandhara Bandha - Chin Lock Maha Bandha - Practice of all the above three Bandhas at the same time

The breath is held during practice of the Bandhas. Mula Bandha and Jalandhara Bandha can be performed after the inhalation as well as after the exhalation. Uddiyana Bandha and Maha Bandha are only performed after the exhalation. The root lock, Mula Bandha, is a powerful contraction of muscles and stimulation of energies that helps to redirect sexual energy into creativity and healing energy. The root lock is often applied at the end of exercises and meditations to stabilize your senses and seal the healing and uplifting effects.

The fundamentals for using bhadhas in practice are: u Avoid eating 6 hours prior u Learn under the guidance of a teacher u Mastery of asana u Long exhale and holding capacity on breath ratio u To perform breath ratio minimal must be 2-2-2, with ideal hold being 2-10-2 u Proper use of senses u Concentration MOOLA BANDHA Technique I: Moola Bandha (perineum contraction)

⇢Stage I: Sit in siddha/siddha yoni asana so that pressure is applied to the perineal/vaginal region.

⇢Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Be aware of the natural breath for a short while. Then focus the awareness on the perineal/vaginal region. Contract this region by pulling up on the muscles of the pelvic floor and then relaxing them.

⇢Continue to briefly contract and relax the perineal/vaginal region as rhythmically and evenly as possible.

⇢Stage 2: Slowly contract this region and hold the contraction. Continue to breathe normally; do not hold the breath. Be Technique I: MOOLAMoola Bandha BANDHA(perineum contraction ) totally aware of the physical sensation. Stage I: Sit in siddha/siddha yoni asana so that pressure is applieThe Sanskritd to thworde perineal/vaginamoola means 'root',l region'firmly. fixed', 'source' or ⇢Contract a little tighter, but keep the rest of the body relaxed. Clos'causee' . the eyes and relax the whole body. Be aware of the natural breath for a short while. ⇢Contract only those muscles related to the mooladhara region. TheBenefitsn focus the awareness on the perineal/vaginal region. ContracMoola bandhat this bestowsregion bmanyy pullinphysical,g up omentaln the andmusclespirituals of the ⇢In the beginning the anal and urinary sphincters also contract, benefits. It stimulates the pelvic nerves and tones the uro-genital pelvic floor and then relaxing them. but as greater awareness and control is developed, this will be and excretory systems. Intestinal peristalsis is also stimulated, Continue to briefly contract and relax the perineal/vaginal minimised and eventually will cease. Ultimately, the relieving constipation and piles. It is also beneficial for anal practitioner will feel one point of movement against the heel. regiofissures,n aulcers,s rhythmicallprostatitis,y someand evenlcasesyof aprostatics possiblehypertrophy. Stage 2: Slowly contract this region and hold the contraction. and chronic pelvic infections. Because this practice releases ⇢Relax the muscles slowly and evenly. energy,Continuite istoalso breatheffectivee normallyin the treatment; do not ofholpsychosomaticd the breath. andBe totallsomeydegenerative aware of thillnessese physica. Itsl effectssensationspread. throughout ⇢Adjust the tension in the spine to help focus on the point of theContracbodyt viaa littlthe ebrain tighterand ,endocrine but keesystemp the resmakingt of itthverye body contraction. beneficialrelaxed. in cases of asthma, bronchitis and arthritis. It also relievesContracdepressiont only thos. Thee muscleperfections relateof thisd practiceto the leadsmooladharto a a ⇢Repeat 10 times with maximum contraction and total spontaneousregion. realignment of the physical, mental and psychic relaxation. bodiesIn thein beginninpreparationg forthespiritual anal anawakeningd urinar. Moolay sphincterbandhasis also bothcontracta means, but atos attaingreatesexualr awarenescontrols an(brahmacharya)d control is developedand to , alleviate a multitude of sexual disorders. It enables sexual energythis wiltol bbee minimisedirected eitherd andupward eventuallfor yspiritual will ceasedevelopment,. Ultimately, orthedownward practitioneto enhancer will feemaritall one relationspoint o. fIt movemenhelps to relievet against sexualthe heelfrustration,. suppression of sexual energy and feelings of sexualRelax guiltthe . muscles slowly and evenly.

412 Technique 2: Moola Bandha with internal breath retention

Sit in a meditation asana where the knees firmly touch the floor. The best asanas are siddha/siddha yoni asana or moola bandhasana MOOLA BANDHA which press the heel into the perineum and help to improve the performance of the bandha. Place the palms on the knees. Close the eyes and relax the whole body for a few minutes. Inhale deeply, retain the breath inside and perform jalandhara bandha. Maintaining jalandhara, perform moola bandha by slowly contracting the perineal/vaginal region and holding the contraction as tightly as possible. Do not strain. This is the final lock. Hold it for as long as the breath can comfortably be retained. Slowly release moola bandha, raise the head to the upright position, and exhale. Practise up to 10 times.

Breathing: The above practice may also be performed with external breath retention.

Technique I: Moola Bandha (perineum contraction) Awareness: Physical - while taking the final position and per- forming jalandhara bandha, awareness should be directed to the Stage I: Sit in siddha/siddha yoni asana so that pressure is appliedMOOLA to the perineal/vagina l region. breath. In the final position the awareness should be fixed at the place of perineal contraction. Spiritual - on the breath and then on Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Be awarBANDHAe of the natural breath for a short while. mooladhara chakra during contraction. Then focus the awareness on the perineal/vaginal region. Contract this region by pulling up on the muscles of the pelvic floor and then relaxing them. Continue to briefly contract and relax the perineal/vaginal Contra-indications: This practice should only be performed under the guidance of an experienced yoga teacher. Moola bandha region as rhythmically and evenly as possible. raises the energies very fast, and can precipitate symptoms of hyperactivity if wrongly prescribed or if preliminary preparation is Stage 2: Slowly contract this region and hold the contraction. Continue to breathe normally; do not hold the breath. not thorough. Be totally aware of the physical sensation. Contract a little tighter, but keep the rest of the body relaxed. Contract only those muscles related to the mooladhara Benefits: Moola bandha bestows many physical, mental and spiritual benefits. It stimulates the pelvic nerves and tones the uro- region. In the beginning the anal and urinary sphincters also genital and excretory systems. Intestinal peristalsis is also stimulated, relieving constipation and piles. It is also beneficial for anal contract, but as greater awareness and control is developed, fissures, ulcers, prostatitis, some cases of prostatic hypertrophy and chronic pelvic infections. Because this practice releases this will be minimised and eventually will cease. Ultimately, the practitioner will feel one point of movement against energy, it is also effective in the treatment of psychosomatic and some degenerative illnesses. Its effects spread throughout the the heel. Relax the muscles slowly and evenly. body via the brain and endocrine system making it very beneficial in cases of asthma, bronchitis and arthritis. It also relieves depression. The perfection of this practice leads to a spontaneous realignment of the physical, mental and psychic bodies in 412 preparation for spiritual awakening. Moola bandha is both a means to attain sexual control (brahmacharya) and to alleviate a multitude of sexual disorders. It enables sexual energy to be directed either upward for spiritual development, or downward to enhance marital relations. It helps to relieve sexual frustration, suppression of sexual energy and feelings of sexual guilt.

Practice note: Moola bandha is the contraction of certain muscles in the pelvic floor. It does not contract the whole perineum. In the male body the area of contraction lies between the anus and the testes. In the female body, the point of contraction is behind the cervix, where the uterus projects into the vagina. On the subtle level it is the energising of mooladhara chakra. The perineal body, which is the convergence point of many muscles in the groin, acts as a trigger point for the location of mooladhara chakra. Initially, these areas are hard to isolate and it is recommended that ashwini and vajroli mudras be perfected first in preparation for moola bandha.

Note: The Sanskrit word moola means 'root', 'firmly fixed', 'source' or 'cause'. In this context it refers to the root of the spine or the perineum where mooladhara chakra, the seat of kundalini, the primal energy, is located. Moola bandha is effective in releasing brahma granthi and for locating and awakening mooladhara chakra. For further details refer to the Bihar School of Yoga publication Moola Bandha. UDDIYANA BANDHA

Preparatory practice: Standing abdominal contraction

⇢Stand erect with the feet about half a metre apart. Inhale deeply through the nostrils.

⇢Bend forward from the waist and exhale all the air through the mouth.

⇢Try to empty the lungs as much as possible.

⇢Keep the spine horizontal and bend the knees slightly. Place the palms of the hands on the thighs just above the knees, so that the knees are supporting the weight of the upper body. The fingers can point either downward or towards each other.

Preparatory practice: Standing abdominal contraction ⇢Make sure the arms are straight. StandUDDIYANA erect with the feet abou BANDHAt half a metre apart . In this position there is an automatic contraction of the Inhale deeply through the nostrils. abdominal region. TheBenSanskritd forwarwordd frouddiyanam the waismeanst and'to exhalrise eup' allor th'toe aiflyr througupward'h . the mouth. ⇢Bend the head forward but do not press the chin against the BenefitsTry to empty the lungs as much as possible. chest. UddiyanaKeep thbandhae spine ishorizontathe panaceal and benford manythe kneeabdominals slightly.and stomachPlace ailments,the palms includingof the handconstipation,s on the thighindigestion,s just abovwormse the ⇢Make a false inhalation, keeping the glottis closed and andkneesdiabetes,, so providedthat the kneetheysare arenot supportinchronic.gThe the digestiveweight ofiref theis expanding the chest, as though breathing in but not actually stimulatedupper bodyand. theTheabdominal fingers canorgans point areeitheallr downwarmassagedd andor taking in air. tonedtoward. Thes adrenaleach otherglands. are balanced, removing lethargy and soothingMake anxietysure theand armtensions are straight. It improves. blood circulation to ⇢Straighten the legs slightly. the Iwholen this positiotrunk arean therande isstrengthens an automatiallc thecontractiointernaln organsof the . abdominal region. Uddiyana bandha stimulates the solar plexus which has many ⇢This movement will automatically draw the abdomen upward subtleBeninfluencesd the headon forwarthe distributiond but do nooft presenergys thethroughout chin againsthet the chest. and inward towards the spine to form uddiyana bandha. body. It creates a suction pressure which reverses the flow of the Hold this position for a comfortable length of time. sub-Makpranas,e a falsapanae inhalationand prana,, keepinunitingg ththeme glottiwiths samanaclosed anandd expanding the chest, as though breathing in but not stimulating manipura chakra. Then there is an explosion of actually taking in air. ⇢Do not strain. subtle force which travels upward through sushumna nadi. 415 ⇢Release the abdominal lock and relax the chest. Straighten the Contra-indications knees and raise the head. Persons suffering from colitis, stomach or intestinal ulcer, diaphragmatic hernia, high blood pressure, heart disease, ⇢Exhale slightly to release the lock on the lungs and finally glaucoma and raised intracranial pressure should not perform breathe in slowly through the nose. this practice. It should also be avoided by pregnant women. ⇢Remain in the standing position until the breath returns to normal before beginning the next round. Straighten the legs slightly. This movement will automatically draw the abdomen upward and inward towards the spine to form uddiyana bandha. Hold this position for a comfortable length of time. Do not strain. Release the abdominal lock and relax the chest. Straighten the knees and raise the head. Exhale slightly to release the lock on the lungs and finally Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal contraction) breathe in slowly through the nose. Remain in the standing position until the breath returns Sit in siddha/siddha yoni asana or padmasana with the spine erect and the knees in contact with the floor. A cushion may be used to normal before beginning the next round. so that the buttocks are raised, lowering the knees. Place the palms of the hands flat on the knees. Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Breathe in deeply through the nostrils. Exhale through the mouth with a whoosh, emptying the lungs as much as possible. Hold the breath outside. Lean forward and press down on the knees with the palms of the hands. Straighten the elbows and raise the shoulders, allowing further extension of the spinal cord. Do spontaneous jalandhara bandha, pressing the chin against the chest. Contract the abdominal muscles inward and upward. Hold the abdominal lock and the breath outside for as long as you can without straining. Then release the abdominal lock, bend the elbows and lower the shoulders. Raise the head and then slowly inhale. Remain in this position until the respiration returns to normal, then begin the next round.

Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal contraction) Sit in siddha/siddha yoni asana or padmasana with the Breathing: Uddiyana bandha is performed with external breath retention only. spine erecUDDIYANAt and the knees in contact with th e floor. A cushion may be used so that the buttocks are raised, lowering the knees. Place the BANDHApalms of the hands flat on the knees. Duration: Practise 3 rounds in the beginning and gradually increase to 10 rounds over a few months as the system becomes Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Breathe in deeply through the nostrils. accustomed to the practice. Exhale through the mouth with a whoosh, emptying the lungs as much as possible. Hold the breath outside. Awareness: Physical - on the abdomen and on synchronising the breath in coordination with each step. Spiritual - on manipura 416 chakra.

Sequence: Uddiyana bandha is easier to perform if preceded by an inverted asana.

Precaution: Uddiyana bandha is an advanced technique and should be attempted only under guidance, after attaining some proficiency in breath retention, as well as jalandhara and moola bandhas.

Contra-indications: Persons suffering from colitis, stomach or intestinal ulcer, diaphragmatic hernia, high blood pressure, heart disease, glaucoma and raised intracranial pressure should not perform this practice. It should also be avoided by pregnant women.

Benefits: Uddiyana bandha is the panacea for many abdominal and stomach ailments, including constipation, indigestion, worms and diabetes, provided they are not chronic. The digestive fire is stimulated and the abdominal organs are all massaged and toned. The adrenal glands are balanced, removing lethargy and soothing anxiety and tension. It improves blood circulation to the whole trunk area and strengthens all the internal organs. Uddiyana bandha stimulates the solar plexus which has many subtle influences on the distribution of energy throughout the body. It creates a suction pressure which reverses the flow of the sub-pranas, apana and prana, uniting them with samana and stimulating manipura chakra. Then there is an explosion of subtle force which travels upward through sushumna nadi.

Practice note: Uddiyana bandha must always be practised on an empty stomach and the bowels should also be empty. Agnisar kriya is an excellent preparatory practice.

Note: The Sanskrit word uddiyana means 'to rise up' or 'to fly upward'. This practice is so-called because the physical lock applied to the body causes the diaphragm to rise towards the chest. Uddiyana is therefore often translated as the stomach lift. Another meaning is that the physical lock helps to direct prana into sushumna nadi so that it flows upward to sahasrara chakra. JALANDHARA BANDHA

⇢Sit in padmasana or siddha/siddha yoni asana with the head and spine straight. The knees should be in firm contact with the floor. Those who cannot manage this may perform jalandhara bandha in a standing position.

⇢Place the palms of the hands on the knees.

⇢Close the eyes and relax the whole body.

⇢Inhale slowly and deeply, and retain the breath inside. While retaining the breath, bend the head forward and press the chin tightly against the chest.

⇢Straighten the arms and lock them firmly into position, pressing the knees down with the hands.

JalandharJALANDHARAa Bandha (throat lock) BANDHA ⇢Simultaneously, hunch the shoulders upward and forward. This Sit in padmasana or siddha/siddha yoni asana with the will ensure that the arms stay locked, thus intensifying the heaThedSanskrit and spinworde jalanstraightmeans. 'net'Theand kneedharas shoulmeansd'stream' be inor firm pressure applied to the neck. 'flow'contac. Onet witinterpretationh the floor.of Thosjalandharae who bandhacannotis managthe locke whichthis may controlsperformthe jalandharnetwork ofa nadisbandhinathe inneck a standin. g position. ⇢Stay in the final position for as long as the breath can be held Place the palms of the hands on the knees. comfortably. BenefitsClose the eyes and relax the whole body. Jalandhara bandha compresses the carotid sinuses, which are Inhale slowly and deeply, and retain the breath inside. ⇢Do not strain. located on the carotid arteries, the main arteries in the neck. While retaining the breath, bend the head forward and These sinuses help to regulate the circulatory and respiratory Relax the shoulders, bend the arms, slowly release the lock, press the chin tightly against the chest. ⇢ systems. Normally, a decrease of oxygen and increase of carbon raise the head and then exhale. dioxideStraightein nthe thbodye armleadss antodan locincreasedk themheart firmlratey andintoheavier position, breathingpressing. thThise kneeprocesss dowis initiatedn with thbye thehandscarotid. sinuses. By ⇢Repeat when the respiration has returned to normal. artificiallySimultaneouslyexerting, huncpressureh thone shoulderthese sinuses,s upwarthisdtendency and forwardis . prevented,This will ensurallowinge thafort thdecreasede arms stahearty lockedrate, thuands increasedintensifying breaththe pressurretentione applie. Thisd practiceto the neckproduces. mental relaxation, relievingStay in thstress,e finaanxietyl positioandn foangerr as .lonIt gdevelops as the breatmeditativeh can be introversionheld comfortablyand one. -pointedness. The stimulus on the throat helpsDo nototbalance strain.thyroid function and regulate the metabolism. Relax the shoulders, bend the arms, slowly release the Contradictions & Cautions Peoplelock, raissufferinge the heafromd cervicaland thespondylosis,n exhale. high intracranial pressure,Repeat whevertigo,n thhighe respiratioblood pressuren has orreturneheart ddisease to normalshould. not practise jalandhara bandha. Although it reduces blood pressure initially, long retention40of9 the breath brings about some strain on the heart. JALANDHARA BANDHA

Variation: In knya yoga a more subtle form of jalandhara bandha is practised where the head is simply bent forward so that the chin presses the neck, and the awareness is concentrated on vishuddhi chakra. This kriya variation is the one most commonly used in association with asana practices.

Breathing: The practice may also be performed with external breath retention.

Duration: Jalandhara bandha should be held for as long as the practitioner is able to comfortably retain the breath. Gradually increase this period by maintaining a count while retaining the breath and increasing the count one by one. This practice may be repeated up to 5 times.

Awareness: Physical - on the throat pit. Spiritual - on vishuddhi chakra. Jalandhara Bandha (throat lock) Sit in padmasanJALANDHARAa or siddha/siddha yoni asana with the head and spinBANDHAe straight. The knees should be in firm Sequence: This bandha is ideally performed in conjunction with pranayamas and mudras. If practised on its own it should be contact with the floor. Those who cannot manage this may performed after asanas and pranayamas and before meditation. perform jalandhara bandha in a standing position. Place the palms of the hands on the knees. Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Contra-indications: People suffering from cervical spondylosis, high intracranial pressure, vertigo, high blood pressure or heart Inhale slowly and deeply, and retain the breath inside. disease should not practise jalandhara bandha. Although it reduces blood pressure initially, long retention of the breath brings While retaining the breath, bend the head forward and press the chin tightly against the chest. about some strain on the heart. Straighten the arms and lock them firmly into position, pressing the knees down with the hands. Benefits: Jalandhara bandha compresses the carotid sinuses, which are located on the carotid arteries, the main arteries in the neck. Simultaneously, hunch the shoulders upward and forward. This will ensure that the arms stay locked, thus intensifying These sinuses help to regulate the circulatory and respiratory systems. Normally, a decrease of oxygen and increase of carbon the pressure applied to the neck. dioxide in the body leads to an increased heart rate and heavier breathing. This process is initiated by the carotid sinuses. By Stay in the final position for as long as the breath can be artificially exerting pressure on these sinuses, this tendency is prevented, allowing for decreased heart rate and increased breath held comfortably. Do not strain. retention. Relax the shoulders, bend the arms, slowly release the lock, raise the head and then exhale. This practice produces mental relaxation, relieving stress, anxiety and anger. It develops meditative introversion and one- Repeat when the respiration has returned to normal. pointedness. The stimulus on the throat helps to balance thyroid function and regulate the metabolism. 409 Practice note: Do not inhale or exhale until the chin lock and armlock have been released and the head is fully upright. If any sensation of suffocation is felt, immediately stop and rest. Once the sensation has passed, resume the practice.

Note: The Sanskrit word jalan means 'net' and dhara means 'stream' or 'flow'. One interpretation of jalandhara bandha is the lock which controls the network of nadis in the neck. The physical manifestation of these nadis are the blood vessels and nerves of the neck. An alternative definition is that'll means 'throat', jalan, 'water' and that dhara refers to a tubular vessel in the body. Jalandhara bandha is therefore the throat lock which holds the nectar or fluid flowing down to vishuddhi from bindu and prevents it from falling into the digestive fire. In this way prana is conserved. There is also a third meaning. A d h a r a means 'base' or 'substratum'. There are sixteen specific centres in the body called adharas which refer to the major and minor chakras. Jalandhara bandha may also be defined as the practice that locks the pranic network of the neck and redirects the flow of subtle energy from this adhara to sushumna nadi in the spine. MAHA BANDHA ⇢Sit in siddha/siddha yoni asana or padmasana with the hands on the knees. The spine should be erect and the head straight. Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Breathe in slowly and deeply through the nose.

⇢Exhale forcefully and completely through the mouth. Retain the breath outside.

⇢Successively perform jalandhara, uddiyana and moola bandhas in this order.

⇢Hold the bandhas and the breath for as long as is comfortable without straining.

⇢Then release moola, uddiyana and jalandhara bandhas in this order. Maha Bandha (thMAHAe great lock BANDHA) ⇢Inhale slowly when the head is upright. TheSit Sanskritin siddha/siddhword mahaa meansyoni asan'great'a. Mahaor padmasanbandha isa calledwith the hands on the knees. The spine should be erect and the the great lock as it combines all the three bandhas in one ⇢This is one round. practicehead straight. . Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Breathe in slowly and deeply through the nose. ⇢Keep the eyes closed, relax the body and let the breath return BenefitsExhale forcefully and completely through the mouth. to normal before commencing another round. MahaRetaibandhan the breatgives hthe outsidebenefits. of all three bandhas. It affects theSuccessivelhormonalysecretions performof jalandharathe pineal gland, uddiyanand regulatesa and themoola entirebandhaendocrines in thisystems order. The. decaying, degenerative and ageing processesHold tharee checkedbandhaands aneveryd thcelle ofbreatthe bodyh foisr rejuvenatedas long a. s is It soothes anger and introverts the mind prior to meditation. comfortable without straining. When perfected it can fully awaken prana in the main chakras. ItTheleadsn releasto thee mergermoola, ofuddiyanprana, aapana and jalandharand samanaa bandhain agni s in mandala,this orderwhich. is the culmination of all pranayamas. Inhale slowly when the head is upright. ContradictionsThis is one round& Cautions. PeopleKeep thsufferinge eyes fromclosedhigh, relaorx lowthe bodbloody anpressure,d let thhearte breath conditions,return tostroke, normahernia,l beforstomache commencinor intestinalg anotheulcer, andr roundthose . Awarenessrecovering: Physicafrom anyl -visceral after performinailment shouldg thavoide bandhathis practices rotat.e the Pregnantconsciousneswomens shouldthrougalsoh thnote perinealattempt this, abdominapractice. l and throat regions in turn. Remain aware of each region for a few seconds and then move to the next.

419 MAHA BANDHA

Awareness: Physical - after performing the bandhas rotate the consciousness through the perineal, abdominal and throat regions in turn. Remain aware of each region for a few seconds and then move to the next. Spiritual - after performing the bandhas, rotate the consciousness through mooladhara, manipura and vishuddhi chakras in turn. Remain aware of each chakra for a few seconds and then move to the next.

Duration: Once proficiency is attained, and only then, increase by one round over a period of time until 9 rounds can be performed. Precaution: Do not attempt maha bandha until the other three bandhas have been mastered.

Maha Bandha (the great lock) Contra-indications: People suffering from high or low blood pressure, heart conditions, stroke, hernia, stomach or intestinal ulcer, Sit in siddha/siddhMAHAa yon i asana or padmasana with the and those recovering from any visceral ailment should avoid this practice. Pregnant women should also not attempt this practice. hands on the knees. The spine should be erect and the head straightBANDHA. Close the eye s and relax the whole body. Breathe in slowly and deeply through the nose. Exhale forcefully and completely through the mouth. Benefits: Maha bandha gives the benefits of all three bandhas. It affects the hormonal secretions of the pineal gland and regulates Retain the breath outside. the entire endocrine system. The decaying, degenerative and ageing processes are checked and every cell of the body is Successively perform jalandhara, uddiyana and moola bandhas in this order. rejuvenated. It soothes anger and introverts the mind prior to meditation. When perfected it can fully awaken prana in the main Hold the bandhas and the breath for as long as is chakras. It leads to the merger of prana, apana and samana in agni mandala, which is the culmination of all pranayamas. comfortable without straining. Then release moola, uddiyana and jalandhara bandhas in this order. Practice note: Maha bandha can also be performed from utthan padasana. Inhale slowly when the head is upright. This is one round. Keep the eyes closed, relax the body and let the breath Note: The Sanskrit word maha means 'great'. Maha bandha is called the great lock as it combines all the three bandhas in one return to normal before commencing another round. Awareness: Physical - after performing the bandhas rotate the practice. For the traditional hatha yoga technique refer to the Bihar School of Yoga publication Hatha Yoga Pradipika. consciousness through the perineal, abdominal and throat regions in turn. Remain aware of each region for a few seconds and then move to the next.

419 Mudra In Sanskrit, the word ‘mudra’ means “sealing in the energy”, they can be seen as the gestures adopted during pranayama's and meditations that directs flow of energy into our body. Yogic Tantras say that these mudra yoga techniques stimulate different areas of the brain. Mudras are elaborate hand and finger gestures which have symbolic meaning as visual language. As physical postures, their energetic powers can be directed to heal our bodies.

Mudras are often seen as only various postures of fingers and thumbs. Yet, it cannot be negated that Yoga is a form of spiritual practice to improve body-mind connectivity and as such the direction of energy can be manipulated through not only the hands, but so too the head and through various postures. Additionally, mudra can be utilised as therapy whereby different diseases are treated by manipulating prana in specific ways; simple measures surprisingly restore states of balance in the body and mind, raising levels of immunity.

The physical body is made up of five elements namely - Air, Water, Fire, Earth and Akasha (ether - the tiny intercellular spaces in the human body). Imbalance of these elements disrupts the immunity system and causes disease. Deficiencies in any of these elements can be made up by connecting one part of the body with another in a particular manner through Mudras.

Five Fingers for Five Elements u Thumb = Fire u Index = Air u Middle = Ether/Space u Ring = Earth u Little = Water

When performing a hand mudra, a light contact between the thumb and the finger is sufficient; firm pressure is not really required. The position of other fingers is not important. They can be held normally straight or allowed to bend as per the requirements. There are dozens of mudras, and each represents a certain quality, such as courage, compassion, or wisdom. It is believed that, by practicing mudra, you awaken the seeds of these states within you.

Swami Satyanand Saraswati, founder of Bihar School of Yoga, brought mudras back to scholarly life through adept research and understanding. As abovementioned mudras are postures and gestures that guide the practitioner out of habitual patterns and into a state of refined consciousness, the mix of both physical and mental processing have integrative properties and activating large areas of the cerebral cortex. Moreover, mudra’s are a link between asana, pranayama, pratyahara, and concentration; they enable connections between the internal and the eternal through the body, the breath, and the universal lifeforce.

Swami Satyanand Saraswati, from traditional classifications, groups mudra’s into five categories: Hasta (hand), Mana (head), Kaya (postural), Bandha (lock), and Adhara (perineal). The following shall be herein discussed – Hasta, Mana, and Kaya. It redirects prana back into the body which would otherwise be dispersed. The elbows naturally tend to point to the side when performing this mudra which helps open up the chest area. ⇢Assume a comfortable meditation posture with the head and spine straight.

⇢Place the palms of the hands together with the fingers and thumbs straight and pointing away from the body. Keeping the pads of the index fingers together, turn the little, ring and middle fingers inwards so that the backs of the fingers are touching.

⇢Interlock the little, ring and middle fingers.

⇢Bring the thumbs towards the body and join the pads of the fingers together to form the base of a yoni or womb shape.

Variation: Yoni mudra may also be performed by interlocking Variation: Yoni mudra may also be performed by interlocking the the middle, rinYONIg and littl MUDRAe fingers withou t turning them middle, ring and little fingers without turning them inward. The inward. The thumbs may be crossed in front of the out- thumbs may be crossed in front of the out- stretched index fingers, HASTA: Yoni Mudra (attitude of the womb or source) stretched index fingers, or outstretched with the pads or outstretched with the pads touching towards the body. touching towards the body. Benefits Note: The word yoni means 'womb' or 'source'. Yoni mudra Note:The The interlockingword yoni meansof the 'womb'fingers or in'source'.this practice Yoni mudracreates invokesa invokes the primal energy inherent in the womb or source of thecomplete primalcross energyconnection inherentof in energiesthe wombfrom or sourcethe right of handcreation.into creation. the left and vice versa. As well as balancing the energies in the body, it helps balance the activities of the right and left hemispheres of the brain. Placing the tips of the index fingers and thumbs together further intensifies the flow of prana. This mudra makes the body and mind more stable in meditation and develops greater concentration, awareness and internal physical relaxation.

430 BHAIRAVA MUDRA ⇢Assume a comfortable meditation posture with the head and spine straight.

⇢Place the right hand on top of the left, so that the palms of both hands are facing up. Both hands then rest in the lap. Close the eyes and relax the whole body, keeping it motionless.

Variation: When the left hand is placed on top of the right the practice is called Bhairavi mudra. Bhairavi is the female counterpart of Bhairava.

Note: Bhairava is the fierce or terrifying form of Lord Shiva, the aspect responsible for the dissolution of the universe. The two Bhairava Mudra (fierce or terrifying attitude) hands represent ida and pingala nadis, and the union of the Assume a comfortable meditation posture with the head individual with the supreme consciousness. Bhairava mudra is BHAIRAVA MUDRA used in prana mudra. It may also be used during pranayama and and spine straight. meditation practice. PlacHASTAe the: righBhairavat hanMudrad on to(fiercep of thoreterrifying left, so attitude)that the palms of both hands are facing up. Both hands then rest in the lap. Close the eyes and relax the whole body, keeping it motionless. Variation: When the left hand is placed on top of the right the practice is called Bhairavi mudra. Bhairavi is the female counterpart of Bhairava. Note: Bhairava is the fierce or terrifying form of Lord Shiva, the aspect responsible for the dissolution of the universe. The two hands represent ida and pingala nadis, and the union of the individual with the supreme consciousness. Bhairava mudra is used in prana mudra. It may also be used during pranayama and meditation practice.

431 HRIDAYA MUDRA ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation asana with the head and spine straight.

⇢Place the tips of the index fingers at the root of the thumbs, as in chin and jnana mudras, and join the tips of the middle and ring fingers to the tips of the thumbs so they are placed side by side. The little finger remains straight. Place the hands on the knees with the palms facing upward. Close the eyes and relax the whole body, keeping it motionless.

Duration: This practice may be performed for up to 30 minutes.

Awareness: Physical - on the breath in the chest area. Spiritual - Hridaya Mudra (heart gesture) on anahata chakra. Sit in any comfortable meditation asana with the head and spine straightHRIDAYA. MUDRA Place the tips of the index fingers at the root of the thumbs, HASTA: Hridaya Mudra (heart gesture) as in chin and jnana mudras, and join the tips of the middlBenefitse and ring fingers to the tips of the thumbs so they arThise placemudrad siddivertse bythe sideflow. Thofeprana littlefrom fingether handsremains straight. Placto thee thhearte handarea,s onimproving the kneethes witvitalityh the palmof thes physicalfacing upwardheart. . ClosThee middlethe eyeands ringandfingers relaxrelate the directlywhole tobodynadis, keepinconnectedg it motionlesswith the heart,. while the thumb closes the pranic circuit and acts Durationas an: Thienergiser,s practicdivertinge may bthee performeflow of pranad forfrom up tothe 30hands minutesto . Awarenessthese :nadis Physica. Hridayal - onmudra the breatis, therefore,h in thebeneficial chest areafor. heart Spirituaailments,l -especially on anahatischemica chakraheart. disease. It is very simple and Benefitsmay: Thibe sused mudrsafelya divertand easilys the infloacutew of situationsprana fro. Them thhearte handis s tothe thcentree hearoft emotionarea, improvin. Hridaya gmudra the helpsvitalittoy releaseof the pentphysica-up l emotion and unburden the heart. It may be practised during heart. The middle and ring fingers relate directly to nadis emotional conflict and crisis. connected with the heart, while the thumb closes the pranic circuit and acts as an energiser, diverting the flow of prana from the hands to these nadis. Hridaya mudra is, therefore, beneficial for heart ailments, especially ischemic heart disease. It is very simple and may be used safely and easily in acute situations. The heart is the centre of emotion. Hridaya mudra helps to release pent-up emotion and unburden the heart. It may be practised during emotional conflict and crisis.

432 ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation asana with the head and spine straight.

⇢This mudra is done and the fingers wrapped around the thumbs and the knuckles of both hands pressed together. The hands are then lightly pressed against the pubic bone. Brahma mudra helps to stimulate a full breath in pranayama practice.

BRAHMA MUDRA

HASTA: Brahma Mudra (gesture of all-pervading consciousness)

Benefits Brahma mudra helps promote a complete breath during pranayama. Because this mudra – and mudras in general – is believed to affect the flow of life force energy (prana) throughout the body, it calms the mind and energizes the body. Brahma mudra is also believed to have these benefits: Improves focus, Releases negative energy, Removes toxins, Helps the yogi reach a higher meditative state. JNANA AND CHIN MUDRAS

JNANA AND CHIN MUDRAS Jnana Mudra (psychic gesture of knowledge) Assume a comfortable meditation posture. ⇢Assume a comfortable meditation posture. Fold the index fingers so that they touch the inside root of the thumbs. Straighten the other three fingers of ⇢eacFoldh the index fingers so that they touch the inside root of the hand so that they are relaxed and slightly apart. thumbs. Straighten the other three fingers of each hand so that Place the hands on the knees with the palms facing downthey. are relaxed and slightly apart. Relax the hands and arms. ⇢Place the hands on the knees with the palms facing down. Relax the hands and arms.

⇢Chin mudra is performed in the same way as jnana mudra Jnana Mudra (psychic gesture of knowledge) except that the palms of both hands face upwards, with the Assume a comfortable meditation posture. backs of the hands resting on the knees. Fold the index fingers so that they touch the inside root of the thumbs. Straighten the other three fingers of each ⇢Relax the hands and arms. hand so that they are relaxed and slightly apart. Place the hands on the knees with the palms facing down. Relax the JNANAhandChins Mudrand arms aAND (psychi. cCHIN gesture o MUDRASf consciousness) Chin mudra is performed in the same way as jnana mudra HASTA: Jnana Mudra (psychic gesture of knowledge) & Chin except that the palms of both hands face upwards, with Mudra (psychic gesture of consciousness) the backs of the hands resting on the knees. BenefitsRelax the hands and arms. JnanaSequencemudra and: Onchine omudraf theseare twsimpleo mudrabuts importantshould bpsychoe adopte- d when- neural fingerever practisinlocks whichg meditationmake meditation, unless otherwisasanas moree specified. powerfulBenefits. The: Jnanpalmsa andmudrfingersa andof chithenhands mudrhavea armanye simplnervee but impor- root endingstant whichpsycho-neuraconstantlyl fingeemit renergy lock.s Whenwhichthe makfingere meditation touches asanathe thumb,s morea powerfulcircuit is. producedThe palmwhichs and allowsfingersthe of the hands Chin Mudra energy(psychithatc gesturwoulde normallyof consciousnessdissipate into) the environment to Chin mudra is performed in the same way as jnana mudra travel back into the body and up to the42brain7 . except that the palms of both hands face upwards, with the backWhens of ththee handfingerss restinand handsg on aretheplaced kneeson. the knees, the knees Relax tharee handsensitised,s and creatingarms. another pranic circuit that maintains and Sequence: Onredirectse of thespranae twowithin mudrathes bodyshoul. Ind baddition,e adopteplacingd whenthe- hands ever practisinon thegknees meditationstimulates, unlesa nadis otherwiswhich runse specifiedfrom the. knees, up Benefits: Jnanthea mudrinsidea ofanthed chithighsn mudranda intoare simplthe perineume but impor. This- nadi is tant psycho-neuraknown as guptal fingeorr thelockhiddens whicnadih mak. Sensitisinge meditatiothisnchannel asanas morhelpse powerfulstimulate.the Thenergiese palmsat anmooladharad fingers ochakraf the .hands

When the palms face427upward in chin mudra, the chest area is opened up. The practitioner may experience this as a sense of lightness and receptivity which is absent in the practice of jnana mudra. Sequence: One of these two mudras should be adopted when- ever practising meditation, unless otherwise specified.

Variation: Jnana and chin mudras are often performed with the tip of the thumb and index finger touching and forming a circle. Beginners may find this variation less secure for prolonged periods of meditation as the thumb and index finger tend to separate more easily when body awareness is lost. Otherwise, this variation is as effective as the basic position.

Practice note: The effect of chin or jnana mudras is very subtle and it requires great sensitivity on the part of the practitioner to perceive the change in consciousness established. With practice, however, the mind becomes conditioned to the mudra and when it is adopted the signal to enter a meditative state is transmitted. JNANA AND Note: The word jnana means 'wisdom' or 'knowledge', thus jnana mudra is the gesture of intuitive knowledge. Chin, on the other CHIN MUDRAS hand, is derived from the word chit or chitta which means 'consciousness'. Chin mudra, therefore, is the psychic gesture of consciousness. Symbolically, the small, ring and middle fingers represent the three gunas or qualities of nature: tamas, inertia; rajas, activity and creativity; and sattwa, luminosity and harmony. In order for consciousness to pass from ignorance to knowledge these three states must be transcended. The index finger represents individual consciousness, the jivatma, while the thumb symbolises supreme consciousness. Injnana and chin mudras the individual (index finger) is bowing down to the supreme consciousness (the thumb), acknowledging its unsurpassed power. The index finger, however, is touching the thumb, symbolising the ultimate unity of the two experiences and the culmination of yoga. SHAMBHAVI MUDRA ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation asana.

⇢Keep the head and spine upright and straight, and place the hands on the knees in either chin orjnana mudra. Close the eyes and relax the whole body.

⇢Relax all the muscles of the face, including the forehead, the eyes and behind the eyes.

⇢Slowly open the eyes and look ahead at a fixed point, keeping the head and the whole body absolutely still. Next, look upward and inward, focusing the eyes at the eyebrow centre.

⇢The head should not move.

Shambhavi Mudra (eyebrow centre gazing) ⇢When performed correctly the two curved eyebrows will form Sit in anSHAMBHAVIy comfortable meditatio MUDRAn asana. a V-shaped image at the root of the nose. This point is the Keep the head and spine upright and straight, and place location of the eyebrow centre. If the V-formation cannot be MANA: Shambhavi Mudra (eyebrow centre gazing) the hands on the knees in either chin or jnan a mudra. seen, the eyes are not converging as they should. Hold the gaze for only a few seconds at first. ClosBenefitse the eyes and relax the whole body. Relax all the muscles of the face, including the forehead, Physically, shambhavi mudra strengthens the eye muscles and ⇢Release at the slightest sensation of strain. threleasese eyesaccumulated and behindtension the eyesin this. area. Mentally, it calms the Close the eyes and relax them. Slowlmind,y removingopen the emotionaleyes and stresslook andaheaangerd at . a Itfixedevelopsd point, keepinconcentration,g the heamentald anstabilityd the wholand thee bodstatey ofabsolutelthoughtlessnessy still. . ⇢Try to suspend the thought processes and meditate on the NextRegular, loopracticek upwarof dshambhavi and inwardmudra, focusinretardsgdegeneration the eyes atof the stillness in chidakasha, the dark space in front of the closed eyebrothe pinealw centregland. and is therefore recommended for children eyes. Thfrome heathed ageshoulofdeight not moveonwards. to balance their emotional Whedevelopmentn performe. d correctly the two curved eyebrows will form a V-shaped image at the root of the nose. This point Precautions is the location of the eyebrow centre. If the V-formation The eyes are very sensitive and consequently the cannofinal positiont be seenshould, the noteyebes arhelde nofort convergintoo long. Ifg theas thenervesy shouldare . Holweakd andthe theregaze isfoanyr onlstrain,y a feretinalw seconddetachments at firstcan. take place. ReleasReleasee theat positionthe slightesif anyt strainsensatiois experiencedn of strain. . Close the eyes and relax them. TrContray to suspen-indicationsd the thought processes and meditate on the stillnesPeople ssuffering in chidakasha,from glaucoma, the darkdiabetic space retinopathyin front of orthethose closed eyeswho. have just had cataract surgery, lens implant or other eye operations, should not perform shambhavi without expert guidance. 433 SHAMBHAVI MUDRA Breathing: After mastering the eye movement, coordinate it with the breath. Breathe in slowly as the eyes are raised. Hold the breath while maintaining the mudra. Breathe out slowly as the gaze is lowered.

Duration: Start with 5 rounds and gradually increase to 10 over a period of months.

Advanced practice: (internal shambhavi mudra) Once shambhavi mudra has been mastered with the eyes open, it may be performed with the eyes closed. This is a more powerful practice because the awareness is more internalised. Be careful not to relax the eyes and stop the practice without being aware of it. Always ensure that, although the eyes are closed, they are still gazing upward internally. Shambhavi Mudra (eyebrow centre gazing) Sit in any comfortablSHAMBHAVIe meditation asana . Practice note: Shambhavi mudra is an integral part of kriya yoga. It is a powerful technique for awakening ajna chakra and is a Keep the heaMUDRAd and spine uprigh t and straight, and place the hands on the knees in either chin or jnan a mudra. meditation practice in its own right. As such it may produce profound experiences when performed for long periods of time; Close the eyes and relax the whole body. however, it should only be performed under the guidance of a guru. Shambhavi mudra is also incorporated in asanas such as Relax all the muscles of the face, including the forehead, the eyes and behind the eyes. simhasana, the lion pose. Slowly open the eyes and look ahead at a fixed point, keeping the head and the whole body absolutely still. Next, look upward and inward, focusing the eyes at the Note: Shambhavi is the wife or consort of Shambhu and both are aspects of Shakti and Lord Shiva. According to tradition, eyebrow centre. The head should not move. Shambhu taught Shambhavi the practice of shambhavi mudra as a means of attaining higher awareness. It is said that practising When performed correctly the two curved eyebrows will this mudra will stir Shambhu and make Him appear, meaning that it will induce higher consciousness within the practitioner. The form a V-shaped image at the root of the nose. This point is the location of the eyebrow centre. If the V-formation practice is also known as bhrumadhya drishti; bhru means 'eyebrow centre' and drishti means gazing', hence this is the practice of cannot be seen, the eyes are not converging as they should. eyebrow centre gazing. Hold the gaze for only a few seconds at first. Release at the slightest sensation of strain. Close the eyes and relax them. Try to suspend the thought processes and meditate on the stillness in chidakasha, the dark space in front of the closed eyes.

433 Note: Shambhavi is the wife or consort of Shambhu and both are aspects of Shakti and Lord Shiva. According to tradition, Shambhu taught Shambhavi the practice of shambhavi mudra as a means of attaining higher awareness. It is said that practising this mudra will stir Shambhu and make Him appear, meaning that it will induce higher consciousness within the practitioner. The practice is also known as b h r u m a d h y a drishti; b h r u means 'eyebrow centre' and drishti means gazing', hence this is the practice of eyebrow centre gazing.

NASIKAGRA DRISHTI

⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation posture with the head and spine straight.

⇢Rest the hands on the knees in either chin or jnana mudra. Close the eyes and relax the whole body.

⇢Open the eyes and focus them on the nose tip.

⇢Do not strain the eyes in any way.

⇢When the eyes are correctly focused a double outline of the nose is seen. These two lines converge at the tip of the nose forming an inverted V-image.

⇢Concentrate on the apex of the V.

PreparatorNASIKAGRAy practice: It may be DRISHTI difficult at first to focus the ⇢Try to become completely absorbed in the practice to the eyes on the nose tip. To overcome this, hold the index exclusion of all other thoughts. MANAfinger :uNasikagrap at arm'Drishtis lengt(noseh frotipmgazing) the eyes and focus on it. Slowly bring the finger towards the nose, keeping the ⇢After a few seconds, close the eyes and relax them before Benefitsgaze steadily fixed upon it. repeating the practice. TheWhebenefitsn the offingenasikagrar touchedrishtis tharee similartip of toththosee noseof ,trataka the eyes (seeshoulthed section still beShatkarma focused )o. nNasikagra the fingerdrishti. is an excellent ⇢Continue for up to 5 minutes. technique for calming anger and disturbed states of mind. It Transfer the focus of the eyes to the nose tip. develops the powers of concentration. If performed with awarenessEventuallfory thia slong methoperiod,d becomeit helpss superfluouto awaken mooladharas and the eyes chakrareadilyand fixinduce on themeditative nose tip statesat will. It. takes the practitioner into the psychic and spiritual planes of consciousness. 435 Contra-indications As for shambhavi mudra. Those suffering from depression should avoid this introverting practice. Note: Shambhavi is the wife or consort of Shambhu and both are aspects of Shakti and Lord Shiva. According to tradition, Shambhu taught Shambhavi the practice of shambhavi mudra as a means of attaining higher awareness. It is said that practising this mudra will stir Shambhu and make Him appear, meaning that it will induce higher consciousness within the practitioner. The practice is also known as b h r u m a d h y a drishti; b h r u means 'eyebrow centre' and drishti means gazing', hence this is the practice of eyebrow centre gazing.

NASIKAGRA DRISHTI Preparatory practice: It may be difficult at first to focus the eyes on the nose tip. To overcome this, hold the index finger up at arm's length from the eyes and focus on it. Slowly bring the finger towards the nose, keeping the gaze steadily fixed upon it. When the finger touches the tip of the nose, the eyes should still be focused on the finger. Transfer the focus of the eyes to the nose tip. Eventually this method becomes superfluous and the eyes readily fix on the nose tip at will.

Breathing: Nasikagra drishti should be practised with normal breathing in the beginning until the eyes have adjusted to the downward gaze. Later the practice can be combined with antar kumbhaka (inner retention) but not with bahir kumbhaka (external retention). When Preparatory practiceNASIKAGRA: It may be difficult at first to focus the combining the practice with antar kumbhaka, the eyes remain closed during inhalation and exhalation. eyes on the nose tip. To overcome this, hold the index finger up aDRISHTIt arm's length fro m the eyes and focus on it. Slowly bring the finger towards the nose, keeping the Awareness: Although the eyes are open, the aim of this practice is to create introspection. The open eyes should not be aware of gaze steadily fixed upon it. the outside world. Focusing them on the nose tip concentrates the mind. When the finger touches the tip of the nose, the eyes should still be focused on the finger. Transfer the focus of the eyes to the nose tip. Time of practice: Nasikagra drishti may be practised at any time of day although ideally it is performed early in the morning or Eventually this method becomes superfluous and the eyes readily fix on the nose tip at will. late at night before sleep. 435 Note: The word nasi means 'nose', kagra means 'tip' and drishti means 'gazing'. Another name for this practice is agochari mudra which comes from the Sanskrit word agocharam meaning 'beyond sensory perception', 'unknown' or 'invisible'. This mudra, therefore, enables the practitioner to transcend normal awareness.

Symbolically, in nasikagra drishti the bridge of the nose is related to the spinal cord. At the top is the eyebrow centre, ajna chakra, while at the bottom is the nose tip, mooladhara chakra. Just as shambhavi mudra aims to activate ajna chakra by gazing at the eyebrow centre, nasikagra drishti aims to activate mooladhara chakra by gazing at the nose tip. ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation pose, preferably padmasana or siddha/siddha yoni asana, with the head and spine straight and the hands in chin or jnana mudra. Relax the whole body and close the eyes.

⇢Fold the tongue upward and backward so that the lower surface lies in contact with the upper palate.

⇢Stretch the tip of the tongue backward as far as is comfortable.

⇢Do not strain.

⇢Perform ujjayi pranayama.

⇢Breathe slowly and deeply.

KHECHARI MUDRA ⇢Hold for as long as possible.

MANA: Khechari Mudra (tongue lock) ⇢At first there may be some discomfort and ujjayi pranayama may irritate the throat, but with practice it will become more Benefits comfortable. Khechari mudra stimulates a number of pressure points located in the back of the mouth and the nasal cavity. These points ⇢When the tongue becomes tired, relax it and then repeat the influence the whole body. A number of glands are also practice. massaged, stimulating the secretion of certain hormones and of saliva. This practice reduces the sensations of hunger and thirst, and induces a state of inner calm and stillness. It preserves the vitality of the body and is especially beneficial for inner healing. Khechari combined with ujjayi pranayama is useful for women in labour when practised between contractions. Women should be thoroughly proficient in the practice, however, before using it in this way. Ujjayi and khechari are also used in combination to develop awareness of the spinal and frontal psychic passages. Ultimately, this mudra has the potential to stimulate prana and awaken kundalini shakti.

Contra-indications Tongue ulcers and other common mouth ailments will temporarily preclude performance of this practice. Duration: Practise for 5 to 10 minutes. Khechari mudra may also be performed with other yoga practices.

Awareness: Physical - at the throat. Spiritual - at vishuddhi chakra. The awareness will also change depending on the meditation practice being performed.

Precaution: Discontinue this mudra if a bitter secretion is tasted. Such a secretion is a sign of toxins in the system.

Practice note: The advanced hatha yoga form of this practice involves the careful severing of the frenum beneath the tongue so that it can move right into the nasal cavity and stimulate important psychic centres situated there. This form of khechari mudra is not recommended here, how- ever, as the effects make it unsuitable for interaction with the outside world. KHECHARI MUDRA Note: The word khechari comes from the two Sanskrit roots khe meaning 'sky' and chary a meaning 'one who moves'. Khechari mudra is associated with amrita, the nectar or elixir of life which is secreted from bindu, a point situated at the posterior fontanel, and then collected at vishuddhi chakra (for more information on this process see the chapter Psychic Physiology of Yoga). Perfection of this practice enables the yogi to trap the descending drops of amrita at vishuddhi, overcoming hunger and thirst, and rejuvenating the entire body. For additional information on khechari mudra see the Bihar School of Yoga publications Yoga Darshan and Hatha Yoga Pradipika. Pranayama While prâna is correspondent to the idea of a formless energy that cannot be created nor destroyed, there is an essential nature to this entity that requires it to be cultivated through physical properties. This is existent through that of food, water, and air (breath); these divisible properties, in right intake, are the entities that transform within the body-mind to provide strength, growth, and continuation. Correspondingly, it is these physical properties in an imbalanced or toxic intake, that have the capacity to cause body-mind blockage. Succinctly put, we cannot negate that a fundamental aspect to wellbeing is the cultivation of prâna (energy) through mindful choices of substance; and, unambiguously in regard to the tradition of yoga and meditation and the practices we outline here, it is the formless form of air, or the breath, that provides solid substance to work with.

When working with the breath in order to cultivate Prâna, such cultivation is known as prânâyâma. From the Sanskrit roots prâna and ayâma, prânâyâma can be literally translated into what we know as the extension of lifeforce. With this understanding in mind, we can begin to understand the concept of harnessing the essential lifeforce through the physical property of air, or the breath, in order to promote health and wellbeing. When done as a part of regular practice, the ability to harness this lifeforce becomes an embedded trait. This trait ability then works within the complexity of the innate human form and function to clear both physical and mental blockages, leading towards biopsychosocial health and well-being.

Krama in Pranayama Krama in pranayama is breaking the inhale and exhale techniques into parts to increase concentration and penetrate into the many layers of the subtle body. Anuloma: “with the grain”, holding on the inhale and breaking into steps Viloma: “against the grain”, breaking exhalation up Pratiloma: “opposite”, both inhale and exhale are broken.

Within the main manual we briefly described the basics of the breath including thoracic breathing, abdominal breathing, and the full yogic breath in practice and observation. Here we reiterate the practice of thoracic, abdominal, and yogic breathing before moving into further practices of the breath.

As with the previous techniques, the following pranayama practices have been sourced from the Bihar school of yoga and Swami Satyanand Saraswati’s manunal: Asana, Pranayama, Mudra, Bandha (1996). ⇢Lie in shavasana and relax the whole body. Observe the spontaneous breath without controlling it in any way. Let it be absolutely natural.

⇢Continue observing the natural breath for some time. Place the right hand on the abdomen just above the navel and the left hand over the centre of the chest.

⇢The right hand will move up with inhalation and down with exhalation. The left hand should not move with the breath. There should be no tension in the abdomen. Do not try to force the movement in any way.

⇢Try not to expand the chest or move the shoulders. Feel the abdomen expanding and contracting. Continue breathing ABDOMINAL BREATHING slowly and deeply. ⇢Inhale while expanding the abdomen as much as possible, Abdominal or diaphragmatic breathing is practised by without expanding the rib cage. enhancing the action of the diaphragm and minimising the action of the rib cage. The diaphragm is a domed sheet of ⇢At the end of the inhalation the diaphragm will be compressing muscle that separates the lungs from the abdominal cavity and, the abdomen and the navel will be at its highest point. when functioning correctly, promotes the most efficient type of breathing. It is the effect of the diaphragm rather than the ⇢On exhalation the diaphragm moves upward and the abdomen diaphragm itself that is experienced as the stomach rises and moves downward. falls. Sensitivity to the muscle itself, however, will come with practice. During inhalation the diaphragm moves downward, ⇢At the end of the exhalation the abdomen will be contracted pushing the abdominal contents downward and outward. During and the navel compressed towards the spine. exhalation the diaphragm moves upward and the abdominal contents move inward. Movement of the diaphragm signifies ⇢Continue for a few minutes. that the lower lobes of the lungs are being utilised. The proper use of the diaphragm causes equal expansion of the alveoli, improves lymphatic drainage from basal parts of the lungs, massages the liver, stomach, intestines and other organs that lie immediately beneath it, exerts a positive effect on the cardiac functions and coronary supply, and improves oxygenation of the blood and circulation. Abdominal breathing is the most natural and efficient way to breathe. Due to tension, poor posture, restrictive clothing and lack of training, however, it is often forgotten. Once this technique again becomes a part of daily life and correct breathing is restored, there will be a great improvement in the state of physical and mental wellbeing. ⇢Sit in a meditation posture or lie in shavasana and relax the whole body.

⇢Maintain unbroken awareness of the natural breath for some time, concentrating on the sides of the chest. Discontinue any further use of the diaphragm and begin to inhale by slowly expanding the rib cage.

⇢Feel the movement of the individual ribs outward and upward, and be aware of this expansion drawing air into the lungs. Expand the chest as much as possible.

⇢Exhale by relaxing the chest muscles. Feel the rib cage contracting and forcing the air out of the lungs. Breathe slowly and deeply through the chest with total THORACIC BREATHING awareness. ⇢Do not use the diaphragm. Thoracic breathing utilises the middle lobes of the lungs by expanding and contracting the rib cage. It expends more energy ⇢Continue thoracic breathing for a few minutes, pausing slightly than abdominal breathing for the same quantity of air exchange. after each inhalation and exhalation. It is often associated with physical exercise and exertion, as well as stress and tension, when it helps the body to obtain more oxygen. However, the tendency in many people is to continue this type of breathing long after the stressful situation has passed, creating bad breathing habits and continued tension. ⇢Lie in shavasana and relax the whole body.

⇢Perform thoracic breathing for a few minutes.

⇢Inhale, fully expanding the rib cage.

⇢When the ribs are fully expanded, inhale a little more until expansion is felt in the upper portion of the lungs around the base of the neck. The shoulders and collar bone should also move up slightly.

⇢This will take some effort.

⇢Exhale slowly, first releasing the lower neck and upper chest, then relax the rest of the rib cage back to its starting position.

CLAVICULAR BREATHING ⇢Continue for a few more breaths, observing the effect of this type of breathing. Clavicular breathing is the final stage of total rib cage expansion. It occurs after the thoracic inhalation has been completed. In order to absorb a little more air into the lungs, the upper ribs and the collar bone are pulled upwards by the muscles of the neck, throat and sternum. This requires maximum expansion on inhalation and only the upper lobes of the lungs are ventilated. In daily life, clavicular breathing is only used under conditions of extreme physical exertion and when experiencing obstructive airway diseases such as asthma. ⇢Sit in a meditation posture or lie in shavasana and relax the whole body.

⇢Inhale slowly and deeply, allowing the abdomen to expand fully. Try to breathe so slowly that little or no sound of the breath can be heard.

⇢Feel the air reaching into the bottom of the lungs. At the end of abdominal expansion, start to expand the chest outward and upward.

⇢When the ribs are fully expanded, inhale a little more until expansion is felt in the upper portion of the lungs around the base of the neck. The shoulders and collar bone should also move up slightly. Some tension will be felt in the neck YOGIC BREATHING muscles. The rest of the body should be relaxed. ⇢Feel the air filling the upper lobes of the lungs. Yogic breathing combines the previous three techniques. It is used to maximise inhalation and exhalation. Its purpose is to ⇢This completes one inhalation. gain control of the breath, correct poor breathing habits and increase oxygen intake. It may be practised at any time and is ⇢The whole process should be one continuous movement, each especially useful in situations of high stress or anger for phase of breathing merging into the next without any obvious calming the nerves. However, while its inclusion in a daily yoga transition point. There should be no jerks or unnecessary strain. programme will correct and deepen natural breathing patterns, The breathing should be like the swell of the sea. yogic breathing itself should not be performed continually. ⇢Now start to exhale. Practice note: Yogic breathing is used in most pranayamas. The main requirement, however, is that respiration be ⇢First, relax the lower neck and upper chest, then allow the comfortable and relaxed. Consequently, once awareness and chest to contract downward and then inward. Next, allow the control of the breathing process has been established, the diaphragm to push upward and toward the chest. clavicular technique is dropped and yogic breathing is modified to become a combination of abdominal and thoracic breathing. ⇢Without straining, try to empty the lungs as much as possible The breath should flow naturally and not be forced. by drawing or pulling the abdominal wall as near as possible to the spine.

⇢The entire movement should be harmonious and flowing. Hold the breath for a few seconds at the end of exhalation. This completes one round of yogic breathing.

⇢At first perform 5 to 10 rounds and slowly increase to 10 minutes daily. ⇢Sit in any comfortable position, preferably a meditation asana.

⇢Close the eyes and relax the whole body.

⇢Take the awareness to the breath in the nostrils and allow the breathing to become calm and rhythmic.

⇢After some time, transfer the awareness to the throat. Try to feel or to imagine that the breath is being drawn in and out through the throat and not through the nostrils; as if inhalation and exhalation are taking place through a small hole in the throat.

⇢As the breathing becomes slower and deeper, gently contract the glottis so that a soft snoring sound like the breathing of a sleeping baby is produced in the throat. If this is practised UJJAYI PRANAYAMA correctly there will be a simultaneous contraction of the abdomen. This happens by itself, without any effort being Ujjayi Pranayama (the psychic breath) made.

Benefits ⇢Both inhalation and exhalation should be long, deep and Ujjayi is classified as a tranquillising pranayama and it also has controlled Practise yogic breathing while concentrating on the a heating effect on the body. This practice is used in yoga sound produced by the breath in the throat. therapy to soothe the nervous system and calm the mind. It has a profoundly relaxing effect at the psychic level. It helps to ⇢The sound of the breath should not be very loud. It should just relieve insomnia and may be practised in shavasana just before be audible to the practitioner but not to another person unless sleep. The basic form without breath retention or bandhas slows they are sitting very close. down the heart rate and is useful for people suffering from high blood pressure. Ujjayi alleviates fluid retention. It removes ⇢When this breathing has been mastered, fold the tongue back disorders of the dhatu, which are the 7 constituents of the body: into khechari mudra (refer to the section Mudra). If the tongue blood, bone, marrow, fat, semen, skin and flesh. becomes tired, release it, while continuing the ujjayi breathing.

Contra-indications ⇢When the tongue is rested, again fold it back. People who are too introverted by nature should not perform this practice. Those suffering from heart disease should not ⇢Practise for 10 to 20 minutes. combine bandhas or breath retention with ujjayi. Advanced practice: After becoming proficient in the practice, ujjayi may be performed with jalandhara bandha and moola bandha in conjunction with internal and external kumbhaka (for details of these practices refer to the section Bandha). Do not strain when performing kumbhaka, one or two seconds is sufficient at first. The duration may be increased gradually as the technique is mastered.

Practice note: Ujjayi may be performed in any position, stand- ing, sitting or lying. Those suffering from slipped disc or vertebral spondylitis may practise ujjayi in vajrasana or makarasana. Many people contort their facial muscles when they do ujjayi. This is unnecessary. Try to relax the face as much as possible. Do not contract the throat too strongly. The contraction should be slight and applied continuously throughout the practice. UJJAYI Note: The Sanskrit word ujjayi means 'victorious'. It is derived from the root ji, which means 'to conquer' or 'to acquire by PRANAYAMA conquest', and the prefix ud, which means 'bondage'. Ujjayi is therefore the pranayama which gives freedom from bondage. It is also known as the psychic breath, as it leads to subtle states of mind and is used together with khechari mudra, the tongue lock, in tantric meditation techniques such as mantra japa, ajapa japa, kriya yoga and prana vidya. NADI SHODHANA PRANAYAMA ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation posture, preferably siddha/siddha yoni asana or padmasana. (Those who cannot sit in a meditation posture may sit against a wall with the legs outstretched or in a chair which has a straight back). Keep the head and spine upright.

⇢Relax the whole body and close the eyes.

⇢Practise yogic breathing for some time.

⇢Adopt nasagra mudra with the right hand and place the left hand on the knee in chin orjnana mudra.

⇢Close the right nostril with the thumb.

⇢Inhale and exhale through the left nostril 5 times. The rate of Hand position: Nasagra Mudra (nosetip position) NADI SHODHANA PRANAYAMA inhalation/exhalation should be normal. Be aware of each Hold the fingers of the right hand in front of the face. breath. NadiResShodhanat the indePranayamax and middl(psychice fingernetworks purification)gently on the eyebrow centre. Both fingers should be relaxed. Benefits ⇢After 5 breaths release the pressure of the thumb on the right NadiThshodhanae thumbensures is abovthate thethewhole righbodyt nostriis nourishl and -thede byrinang finger nostril and press the left nostril with the ring finger, blocking extraabovsupplye thofe leftoxygen. Thes. Carbone two dioxidedigits iscontroefficientlyl the expelledflow of breath the flow of air. andinthe thbloode nostrilis purifieds by alternatelof toxins.y Thepressinbraing centreson oneare nostril, stimulatedblockintog workthe flonearerw of breathto their, optimumand thencapacity the other. It also. ⇢Inhale and exhale through the right nostril 5 times, keeping the inducesThe tranquillity,little fingeclarityr is comfortablof thought andy foldedconcentration,. Whenand practisinis g respiration rate normal. recommendedfor long periodsfor those, thengagede elbowin mamentaly bework supporte. It increasesd by the left vitalityhanandd althouglowers hlevels careof is stressneedeandd tanxietyo prevenbytharmonising chest restriction⇢. Lower the hand and breathe 5 times through both nostrils the pranas. It clears pranic blockages and balances ida and together. Nadpingalai Shodhananadis, causing Pranayamsushumnaa (psychinadi toc flow,networwhichk purificationleads to ) ⇢This is one round. Techniqudeep statese ofI:meditation Preparatorandyspiritual practicawakeninge . Sit in any comfortable meditation posture, preferably Hand position ⇢Practise 5 rounds or for 3 to 5 minutes, making sure that there siddha/siddha yoni asana or padmasana. (Those who Nasagra Mudra (nosetip position) is no sound as the air passes through the nostrils. After Holdcannothe fingerst sit inof athe meditatioright handn inposturfront ofe matheyface sit. Restagainsthet a wall practising for 15 days go on to technique 2. indexwitandh thmiddlee legs fingersoutstretchegentlyd onor ithen a eyebrowchair whiccentreh ha. Boths a straight fingersback)should. Keebep relaxedthe hea. Thed anthumbd spiniseabove uprightthe .right nostril andRelathe ringx thfingere wholabovee bodthey anleftd. Theseclose twothe digitseyes. control the flowPractisof breathe yogiin cthe breathinnostrilsgby foalternatelyr some timepressing. on one nostril,Adopblockingt nasagrthea mudrflow a ofwitbreath,h the righand t thenhandthe anotherd plac. e the The little finger is comfortably folded. When practising for long periods, the elbow may be supported379 by the left hand although care is needed to prevent chest restriction. NADI SHODHANA PRANAYAMA

Technique 2: Alternate nostril breathing In this technique the duration of inhalation/exhalation is controlled. Close the right nostril with the thumb and breathe in through the left nostril. At the same time count mentally, "1, Om; 2, Om; 3, Om", until the inhalation ends comfortably. This is the basic count. Breathe deeply with yogic breathing. Do not strain. Close the left nostril with the ring finger, release the pressure of the thumb on the right nostril and while breathing out through the right nostril, simultaneously count, "1, Om; 2, Om; 3, Om". The time for inhalation and exhalation should be equal. Next, inhale through the right nostril, keeping the same count in the same manner. At the end of inhalation close the right nostril, open the left nostril and exhale through the left nostril, counting as before. This is one round. Practise 10 rounds.

Hand position: NasagrNADIa Mudr a (nosetip position) Ratio and timing: After a few days, if there is no difficulty, increase the length of inhalation/exhalation by one count. Continue in Hold the fingers of the right hand in front of the face. this way, increasing the inhalation/exhalation by one count as it becomes easy, until the count of 12:12 is reached. Do not force the Rest the index SHODHANAand middle fingers gentl y on the eyebrow centre. Both fingers should be relaxed. breath in any way and be careful not to speed up the counting during exhalation to compensate for shortage of breath. At the The thumb is abovPRANAYAMAe the right nostril and the ring finger slightest sign of discomfort reduce the count. After perfecting the above ratio, it may be changed to 1:2. For example, breathe in for above the left. These two digits control the flow of breath in the nostrils by alternately pressing on one nostril, a count of 5 and breathe out for a count of 10. Continue extending the breath by adding one count to the inhalation and two to the blocking the flow of breath, and then the other. exhalation, up to the count of 12:24. This ratio establishes a calming rhythm for the brain and heart, assisting the treatment of The little finger is comfortably folded. When practising for long periods, the elbow may be supported by the left cardiovascular and nervous system disorders specifically, and stress related conditions generally. hand although care is needed to prevent chest restriction.

Nadi Shodhana Pranayama (psychic network purification) Advanced practice: Nadi shodhana pranayama may be practised in conjunction with jalandhara, moola and uddiyana bandhas (for Technique I: Preparatory practice details of these practices refer to the section Bandha). First practise jalandhara bandha with internal breath retention only. Once this Sit in any comfortable meditation posture, preferably siddha/siddha yoni asana or padmasana. (Those who practice has been perfected, combine jalandhara bandha with external breath retention. Then introduce moola bandha with cannot sit in a meditation posture may sit against a wall jalandhara during internal retention, then external retention. When this has been mastered, apply uddiyana bandha on external with the legs outstretched or in a chair which has a straight back). Keep the head and spine upright. retention only. It may be necessary to adjust the ratio of the breath to suit the individual capacity. Relax the whole body and close the eyes. Practise yogic breathing for some time. Adopt nasagra mudra with the right hand and place the Breathing: Breathing should be silent in all techniques of nadi shodhana, ensuring that it is not forced or restricted in any way. As the ratio and duration increases the breath becomes very light and subtle. Increased ratios and breath duration should not be 379 attained at the expense of relaxation, rhythm and awareness. The flow of breath must be smooth, with no jerks, throughout the practice. Always use the chest and diaphragm muscles and practise yogic breathing. If one of the nostrils is blocked, perform jala neti or breath balancing exercises before commencing.

Awareness: Physical - on the breath and the counting. Mental - it is easy for the mind to wander during nadi shodhana. Simply be aware of this wandering tendency of the mind, continue the practice and the count. This will automatically encourage the awareness to return to the practice. Spiritual - on ajna chakra.

Precautions: Depending on the phase of the moon, one of the two nostrils usually becomes strongly dominant during the time of sunrise and sunset. This is a period of intense swara, 'breath', activity and it is not advisable to alter the flows at this time. Under no circumstance should the breath be forced. Never breathe through the mouth. Proceed carefully and only under expert guidance. At the slightest sign of discomfort, reduce the duration of inhalation/ exhalation/retention and, if necessary, discontinue the practice for the day. Nadi shodhana should never be rushed.

Practice note: Development of nadi shodhana is intended to take place over a long period of time. Each technique should be practised for a minimum of 6 months, except for technique 1 which may be practised for 2 to 4 weeks. Developing the ratios and timing of the breath in each technique may even take years. (For techniques 3-4 see p. 385 of source) SHEETALI PRANAYAMA ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation posture with the hands on the knees in chin orjnana mudra.

⇢Close the eyes and relax the whole body.

⇢Extend the tongue outside the mouth as far as possible without strain.

⇢Roll the sides of the tongue up so that it forms a tube. Inhale and draw the breath in through this tube. At the end of inhalation, draw the tongue in, close the mouth and exhale through the nose.

⇢Practise yogic breathing throughout.

⇢The breath should produce a noise similar to rushing wind. Sheetali PranayamSHEETALIa (cooling breath PRANAYAMA) A feeling of icy coldness will be experienced on the tongue Sit in any comfortable meditation posture with the hands Sheetali Pranayama (cooling breath) and the roof of the mouth. on the knees in chin or jnana mudra. ClosBenefitse the eyes and relax the whole body. ⇢This is one round. ExtenThisd practicethe tongucoolse theoutsidbodye andthe themoutmindh aass fawellr a.sIt possiblaffectse withouimportantt strainbrain. centres associated with biological drives and ⇢Practise 9 rounds. Roltemperaturel the sidesregulation of the tongu. It coolse up andso thareducest it formmentals a tubeand . Inhalemotionale and draexcitation,w the breatand encouragesh in througtheh freethis flowtubeof. prana ⇢Gradually increase the number of rounds from 9 to 15 and the At throughoutthe end othef inhalationbody. It induces, draw muscularthe tongurelaxation,e in, closmentale the duration of each inhalation/exhalation. mouttranquillityh and exhaland maye througbe usedh asthea tranquillisernose. before sleep. It gives control over hunger and thirst, and generates a feeling of ⇢For general purposes 15 rounds is sufficient; however, up to 60 Practise yogic breathing throughout. rounds may be performed in very hot weather. Thsatisfactione breath . shoulIt helpsd reduceproducbloode apressure noise andsimilaacidr stomachto rushin. g wind. Contra-indications A feeling of icy coldness will be experienced on the tongue People suffering from low blood pressure or respiratory andisordersd the roosuchf of thase asthma,mouth. bronchitis and excessive mucus Thishoulds is onnote roundpractise. this pranayama. Those with heart disease Practisshoulde 9practise roundswithout. breath retention. This practice cools Durationdown: Graduallthe activityy increasof the lowere the energynumbecentres,r of roundtherefore,s fromthose 9 to 15suffering and thefrom duratiochronicn oconstipationf each inhalation/exhalationshould avoid it. Generally,. Fothisr generapranayamal purposeshoulds 1not5 roundbe practiseds is sufficientin winter; howeveror in cool, up to climates60 round. s may be performed in very hot weather. Awareness: On the tongue and the cooling sensation of the breath.

386 Awareness: On the tongue and the cooling sensation of the breath. SHEETALI PRANAYAMA

Sequence: Practise after asanas and other yogic practices which heat the body in order to restore temperature balance.

Precaution: This technique should not be practised in a dirty polluted atmosphere or during cold weather. The nose heats up and cleans the inhaled air before it enters the delicate lungs. However, breathing through the mouth bypasses this air-conditioning and the induction of cold or dirty air directly into the lungs may cause harm.

Advanced practice: This pranayama may also be combined with jalandhara bandha on internal retention (for details of this Sheetali Pranayama (cooling breath) practice refer to the section Bandha). Do not strain when performing kumbhaka, one or two seconds is suffi- cient at first. The Sit in any comfortablSHEETALIe meditation postur e with the hands on the knees in chin or jnana mudra. duration may be increased gradually as the technique is mastered. Close the eyePRANAYAMAs and relax the whole body. Extend the tongue outside the mouth as far as possible without strain. Practice note: About one third of the population possesses a genetic inability to roll the sides of the tongue into a tube. The Roll the sides of the tongue up so that it forms a tube. Inhale and draw the breath in through this tube. practice of seetkari pranayama gives similar benefits. At the end of inhalation, draw the tongue in, close the mouth and exhale through the nose. Practise yogic breathing throughout. The breath should produce a noise similar to rushing Note: The Sanskrit word sheetali is derived from the root sheet which means 'cold'. Sheetal means 'that which is calm, passionless wind. and soothing'. A feeling of icy coldness will be experienced on the tongue and the roof of the mouth. This is one round. Practise 9 rounds. Duration: Gradually increase the number of rounds from 9 to 15 and the duration of each inhalation/exhalation. For general purposes 15 rounds is sufficient; however, up to 60 rounds may be performed in very hot weather. Awareness: On the tongue and the cooling sensation of the breath.

386 SEETKARI PRANAYAMA ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation posture. Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Hold the teeth lightly together.

⇢Separate the lips, exposing the teeth.

⇢The tongue may be kept flat or folded against the soft palate in khechari mudra (refer to the section Mudra). Breathe in slowly and deeply through the teeth.

⇢At the end of the inhalation, close the mouth, keeping the tongue either flat or in khechari mudra.

⇢Breathe out slowly through the nose in a controlled manner.

⇢This is one round.

Seetkari SEETKARIPranayama (hissin gPRANAYAMA breath) ⇢Practise 9 rounds. Sit in any comfortable meditation posture. Seetkari Pranayama (hissing breath) Close the eyes and relax the whole body. ⇢Gradually increase the number of rounds from 9 to 15 and the Hold the teeth lightly together. Benefits duration of each inhalation/exhalation. AsSeparatfor sheetalie thepranayama lips, exposinwith gthe thadditionale teeth. advantage that it keepsThe thetonguteethe andmagumsy be healthykept .flat or folded against the soft ⇢For general purposes 15 rounds is sufficient; however, up to 60 palate in khechari mudra (refer to the section Mudra). rounds may be performed in very hot weather. ContraBreath-indicationse in slowly and deeply through the teeth. AsAt forthesheetali end of pranayamathe inhalation. Practitioners, close thwithe mouthsensitive, keepinteeth,g the missingtongueteeth eitheorr fladenturest or inshould khecharpractisei mudrasheetali. pranayama insteadBreath. e out slowly through the nose in a controlled manner. This is one round. Practise 9 rounds. Duration: As for sheetali pranayama. Awareness: On the hissing sound. Sequence: As for sheetali pranayama. Contra-indications: As for sheetali pranayama. Practitioners with sensitive teeth, missing teeth or dentures should practise sheetali pranayama instead. Benefits: As for sheetali pranayama with the additional advan- tage that it keeps the teeth and gums healthy. Advanced practice: As for sheetali pranayama.

388 SEETKARI PRANAYAMA Awareness: On the hissing sound.

Sequence: Practise after asanas and other yogic practices which heat the body in order to restore temperature balance.

Advanced practice: This pranayama may also be combined with jalandhara bandha on internal retention (for details of this practice refer to the section Bandha). Do not strain when performing kumbhaka, one or two seconds is suffi- cient at first. The duration may be increased gradually as the technique is mastered.

Note: Through perfection of this practice, the adept becomes like the god Kamadeva. Kama means 'desire' and deva means 'master', Seetkari Pranayama (hissing breath) therefore, through this practice desire is mastered and a state of balanced purification is achieved. Sit in any comfortablSHEETALIe meditatio n posture. Close the eyes and relax the whole body. Hold the teetPRANAYAMAh lightly together. Separate the lips, exposing the teeth. The tongue may be kept flat or folded against the soft palate in khechari mudra (refer to the section Mudra). Breathe in slowly and deeply through the teeth. At the end of the inhalation, close the mouth, keeping the tongue either flat or in khechari mudra. Breathe out slowly through the nose in a controlled manner. This is one round. Practise 9 rounds. Duration: As for sheetali pranayama. Awareness: On the hissing sound. Sequence: As for sheetali pranayama. Contra-indications: As for sheetali pranayama. Practitioners with sensitive teeth, missing teeth or dentures should practise sheetali pranayama instead. Benefits: As for sheetali pranayama with the additional advan- tage that it keeps the teeth and gums healthy. Advanced practice: As for sheetali pranayama.

388 ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation asana, preferably padmasana, ardha padmasana or siddha/siddha yoni asana, with the hands resting on the knees in either chin or jnana mudra.

⇢Keep the head and spine straight. Close the eyes and relax the whole body.

⇢Raise the right hand and perform nasagra mudra.

⇢Left nostril: Close the right nostril with the thumb. Breathe in and out forcefully, without straining, through the left nostril 10 times. Count each breath mentally. The abdomen should expand and contract rhythmically with the breath. The pumping action should be performed by the abdomen BHASTRIKA PRANAYAMA alone. Do not expand the chest or raise the shoulders. The Bhastrika Pranayama (bellows breath) Also seen as a Kriya or a body should not jerk. There should be a snuffing sound in the cleansing practice. nose but no sound should come from the throat or chest. After 10 respirations, breathe in deeply through the left nostril Benefits keeping the right nostril closed. Fill the lungs as much as This practice burns up toxins and removes diseases of the possible, expanding both the chest and abdomen. doshas or humours: kapha, phlegm; pitta, bile; and vata, wind. Because of the rapid exchange of air in the lungs, there is an ⇢Close both nostrils and hold the breath inside. Retain the breath increase in the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide into and for a few seconds. out of the bloodstream. This stimulates the metabolic rate, producing heat and flushing out wastes and toxins. The rapid ⇢Exhale through the left nostril. and rhythmic movement of the diaphragm also massages and stimulates the visceral organs, toning the digestive system. ⇢Right nostril: Close the left nostril and breathe in and out It is a useful practice for women during labour after a few forcefully 10 times through the right nostril, counting each months of proper preparation. Bhastrika reduces the level of time. Inhale slowly and deeply through the right nostril. carbon dioxide in the lungs. It is an excellent practice for asthmatics and those suffering from other lung disorders. It ⇢Close both nostrils and hold the breath inside. Retain the breath alleviates inflammation in the throat and any accumulation of for a few seconds. phlegm. It balances and strengthens the nervous system, inducing peace, tranquillity and one- pointedness of mind in ⇢Breathe out slowly through the right nostril. preparation for meditation. ⇢Both nostrils: Open both nostrils. Breathe in and out forcefully Contra-indications through both nostrils 10 times, mentally counting each time. Bhastrika should not be practised by people who suffer from Inhale slowly and deeply through both nostrils. Close both high blood pressure, heart disease, hernia, gastric ulcer, stroke, nostrils and retain the breath for a few seconds. Breathe out epilepsy or vertigo. Those suffering from lung diseases such as slowly through both nostrils together. Breathing through the asthma and chronic bronchitis, or who are recovering from left, the right and both nostrils, as above, forms one complete tuberculosis, are recommended to practise only under expert round. guidance. Preparatory practice: Sit in any comfortable meditation posture, preferably padmasana, ardha padmasana or siddha/ siddha yoni asana, with the hands resting on the knees in either chin or jnana mudra. Keep the head and spine straight, close the eyes and relax the whole body. Take a deep breath in and breathe out forcefully through the nose. Do not strain. Immediately afterwards breathe in with the same force. During inhalation the diaphragm descends and the abdomen moves outward. During exhalation the diaphragm moves upward and the abdomen moves inward. The above movements should be slightly exaggerated. Continue in this manner, counting 10 breaths. At the end of 10 breaths, take a deep breath in and breathe out slowly. This is one round. Practise up to 5 rounds. Keep the eyes closed and concentrate on the breathing and the counting.

Breathing: Bhastrika may be practised at three different breath rates: slow, medium and fast, depending on the capacity of the practitioner. Slow bhastrika is practised to approximately one breath every two seconds, with no undue force on inhalation or BHASTRIKA exhalation. It is like amplified normal breathing. It is especially useful for beginners and those using bhastrika for therapeutic PRANAYAMA purposes, although it may also be practised at all stages. Medium bhastrika increases the speed of respiration to approximately one breath every second. Fast bhastrika means a breathing speed of around two breaths per second. Both medium and fast breathing are suitable for intermediate and advanced practitioners. The abdominal muscles will become stronger with regular practice. As they do so, the number of respirations may be increased by 5 per month from the initial count of 10 to a maximum count of 40 to 50 respirations through the left, the right and both nostrils.

Duration: Up to 5 rounds. Slowly increase the duration of retention up to 30 seconds after breathing through the left, the right and both nostrils. Do not strain.

Awareness: Physical - on the breathing process, the physical movement of the abdomen and mental counting. Spiritual - on manipura chakra.

Precautions: A feeling of faintness, excessive perspiration or a vomiting sensation indicates that the practice is being performed incorrectly. Avoid violent respiration, facial contortions and excessive shaking of the body. If any of these symptoms are experienced, the advice of a yoga teacher should be sought. This practice is ideal for purifying the blood and erad- icating a bad complexion. However, if the stages are rushed, all the impurities will be ejected from the body in a rush which may exacerbate the condition. A slow, conscientious approach to this practice is, therefore, recommended. Bhastrika is a dynamic practice requiring a large expenditure of physical energy. Beginners are advised to take a short rest after each round.

Advanced practice: Once this practice has been mastered, jalandhara and moola bandha may be combined during each internal breath retention or after each round. Practice note: Both nostrils must be clear and flowing freely. Mucus blockages may be removed through the practice of neti (see the section Shatkarma). If the flow of breath in the nostrils is unequal, it may be balanced by practising padadhirasana as a breath balancing technique (see chapter Vajrasana Group of Asanas). Beginners should be familiar with abdominal breathing before taking up bhastrika.

Note: The Sanskrit word bhastrika means 'bellows'. Thus, bhastrika pranayama is also known as the bellows breath, as air is drawn forcefully in and out of the lungs like the bellows of a village blacksmith. The bellows increases the flow of air into the fire, producing more heat. Similarly, bhastrika pranayama increases the flow of air into the body to produce inner heat at both the physical and subtle levels, stoking the inner fire ofmind/body. ⇢Sit in any comfortable meditation asana; padmasana, as a first choice, or siddha/siddha yoni asana, with the head and spine straight and the hands resting on the knees in either chin or jnana mudra.

⇢Close the eyes and relax the whole body.

⇢Inhale deeply through both nostrils, expanding the abdomen, and exhale with a forceful contraction of the abdominal muscles. Do not strain.

⇢The next inhalation takes place by passively allowing the abdominal muscles to expand. Inhalation should be a spontaneous or passive recoil, involving no effort. Perform 10 KAPALBHATI PRANAYAMA respirations to begin with. Count each respiration mentally. Kapalbhati Pranayama (frontal brain cleansing breath). Also ⇢After completing 10 rapid breaths in succession, inhale and seen as a Kriya or a cleansing practice. exhale deeply.

Benefits ⇢This is one round. Kapalbhati purifies ida and pingala nadis, and also removes sensory distractions from the mind. It is used to energise the ⇢Practise 3 to 5 rounds. mind for mental work, to remove sleepiness and to prepare the mind for meditation. It has a similar cleansing effect on the ⇢After completing the practice, maintain awareness of the void lungs to bhastrika and is, therefore, a good practice for in the region of the eyebrow centre, feeling an all- pervading asthmatics and those suffering from emphysema, bronchitis and emptiness and calm. tuberculosis. After a few months of proper preparation, it can be effective for women to use during childbirth. It balances and ⇢Up to 5 rounds of 10 to 20 breaths. strengthens the nervous system and tones the digestive organs. For spiritual aspirants, this practice arrests thoughts and visions. ⇢Advanced practitioners may extend the number of rounds to 10 or more; longer periods than this should only be practised Contra-indications under expert guidance. Kapalbhati should not be practised by those suffering from heart disease, high blood pressure, vertigo, epilepsy, stroke, hernia or gastric ulcer. Breathing: It is important that the rapid breathing used in these techniques be from the abdomen and not from the chest. The number of respirations may be increased from the initial count of 10 up to 20, as the abdominal muscles become stronger.

Duration: Up to 5 rounds of 10 to 20 breaths. Advanced practitioners may extend the number of rounds to 10 or more; longer periods than this should only be practised under expert guidance.

Awareness: Physical - on rhythmic breathing, keeping count of the respirations. Spiritual - on chidakasha or the void at the eyebrow centre.

Sequence: Kapalbhati should be practised after asanas or neti and immediately before pratyahara and dharana meditation KAPALBHATI techniques. It may be performed at any time of day but should only be practised on an empty stomach, 3 to 4 hours after meals. PRANAYAMA Precautions: If pain or dizziness is experienced, stop the practice and sit quietly for some time. When the sensation has passed, recommence the practice with more awareness and less force. If the problem continues, consult a yoga teacher.

Practice note: Although kapalbhati is similar to bhastrika, there are important differences. Bhastrika uses force on both inhalation and exhalation, expanding and contracting the lungs above and below their resting or basic volume. Kapalbhati, on the other hand, actively reduces the volume of air in the lungs below this level through forced exha- lation. In this practice, inhalation remains a passive process which brings the level of air in the lungs back to the basic volume only. This way of breathing reverses the normal breathing process which involves active inhalation and passive exhalation.

Note: Kapalbhati is also one of the six shatkarmas. The Sanskrit word kapal means 'cranium' or 'forehead' and bhati means 'light' or 'splendour' and also 'perception or 'knowledge'. Hence kapalbhati is the practice which brings a state of light or clarity to the frontal region of the brain. Another name for this practice is kapalshodhana, the word shodhana meaning 'to purify'. ⇢The Prana Mudra should ideally be performed while sitting down in meditative posture crossed legged in Sukhasana (easy pose) or Padma Asana (Lotus Pose).

⇢Place the hands initially in Bhairava Mudra

⇢Keep eyes closed and activate Mula Bhanda (root lock), and concentrating on Muladhara (root) Chakra.

⇢Inhale deeply and slowly and raise hands until they are in front of the navel, palms facing front of body, then keep the inhalation and expand the chest until hands are directly in front of chest, and then even further to the throat. Hold prana in throat and breath, shoulders may elevate slightly, whilst hands move out to the sides.

PRANA MUDRA ⇢All the time you are moving the energy or prana from Muladhara (root) Charkra, to Manipurna (solar plexus) A complicated Mudrā combining hand gestures, synchronized Chakra, to Vishuddha (Throat) Chakra, and then upwards to movement from gesture to gesture within the breath cycle, and last two chakras. meditation. The mudrā is practiced sitting in Siddhasana. Even a single breath cycle of this Mudrā can significantly stimulate the ⇢Prana Mudra is the peace mudra, so the feeling is about body. radiating peace to all beings. During exhalation, feel the prana progressively descending through each of the chakras until it Benefits reaches Muladhara (root) Chakra. One of the primary benefits of the Prana Mudra is its ability to make you feel energized when you are fatigued or depressed. It ⇢Once pose has been perfected, the breath is visualised as also helps to strengthen the immune system and is good for the stream of white light ascending and descending through eyes. It awakens dormant prana Shakti, our vital energy, sushumna nadi (central nadi). Do not strain the lungs. This is distributing it throughout the body. This increases health, strength, best practised after asana, pranayama, and before meditation, confidence. The mudra develops an awareness of subtle flow of ideally at sunrise, facing the sun. prana in body, instils an attitude of peace and calm, and an inner awareness of receiving and offering energy to and from its source.

Alternatives Can be performed while standing up straight in the Tadasana (Mountain Pose)