| Dr Ananda Balayogi Bhavanani Bandha Trayam consists of three important neuromuscular locks. These are Moola Bandha (anal lock), Uddiyana Bandha (fly-up, abdominal lock) and Jalandhara Bandha (chin lock). These are applied during different phases of Pranayama as well as during the Oli Mudras for energy purposes. They are an important component of Yoga Sadhana and especially very important if the practitioner wants to perform Pranayama with long Kumbhakas (restraints). It is dangerous to perform Kumbhaka without proper use of the Bandhas. The Bandhas regulate changes in the intra abdominal and intra thoracic pressures that affect abdominal and thoracic organs to a great extent. Jalandhara Bandha regulates the flow of blood to the cephalic region of the head, actually accelerating blood drainage from the vital organs of the head and the neck. Without this Bandha, blood normally stagnates in the organs of the head causing tension of the eyes and producing such conditions as migraine headaches and the general sense of “woolliness” of the brain. The venous drainage, from the head and neck area is clearly indicated to be of great value in correcting tension problems of the face, nasal passages, throat and neck areas. Uddiyana Bandha has been shown to aid in the strengthening of the diaphragm. It cures dyspepsia and is recommended for diabetics. Uddiyana Bandha aids in draining a clogged up liver, as well as hardens and tones up the pancreas and spleen. Uddiyana Bandha and its companion practice of Nauli Kriya totally eliminate constipation by encouraging the natural peristalsis of the bowel. Moola Bandha affects the central and sympathetic nervous system reducing tension, therefore affecting subsequent inflammation at the uro-genital region. The ovaries in the female and the prostate gland in the male receive an increased blood circulation. Increased muscular tone is to be noted relative to the varicocele and hemorrhoids in those suffering such conditions, suggesting that the practice of Moola Bandha should be used as a prevention of these conditions. Phlebitis and blood clotting thrombosis is eliminated. Moola Bandha has been shown to be beneficial for toning up the kidneys and bladder and it generally tones up the musculature of the female sex organs. There is some possibility that Moola Bandha is of aid in dissolving or passing soft kidney and bladder stones. There is a tremendous psychological value to the practice of Bandha Trayam as well. The Jalandhara Bandha gets rid of “cobwebby” thinking. Uddiyana Bandha insures that the blood supply of the body is maintained at highest efficiency, while the Moola Bandha has the effect of canceling out neurotic and psychotic tendencies associated with failure or disappointment with sexual drives and needs. In general, the practice of Bandha Trayam improves the tonus of the lungs as the width of the chest increases and a greater breath capacity is produced developing all major parts of the lungs equally and without harmful tension. Pressure is actually taken off various organs like the heart and lungs. While doing the Bandha Trayam, the heart elongates vertically, giving it a healthy massage, increasing cardiac blood flow, reducing fatty accumulation and increasing cardiac and pulmonary efficiency to its most desirable level. A regular practice of the Bandha Trayam is recommended as a prevention to all types of lung and heart diseases, and as an aid to digestion and elimination processes. Hernias, prolapse of organs, glandular infections are all prevented. Thrombi, blood clots, and venous phlebitis are retarded. A healthy spine can also be attributed to the practice of Bandha Trayam. Enjoyment of life is increased with good digestion and a “happy” liver, and the ladies should note that healthy babies are spawned from a healthy pelvis.
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