Uddiyan-Bandh

Other Names

Uddiyan-Bandh, Udiyana, Udiyan, Abdominal Lock

Description

This bandh involves movement of the muscles of the stomach and especially the muscles of the diaphragm. The movement is important and characteristic. Hathayoga assigns a special importance to Uddiyan Bandh. The study of Pranayam is not complete without studying this bandh. While performing this bandh, the muscle of the diaphragm is stretched in upward direction; hence this bandh is termed as Uddiyan Bandh. Also, this bandh is useful for awakening of Kundalini Shakti while making spiritual progress; hence it may have been termed as Uddiyan Bandh.

How to do

• Stand up with distance of 1 to 1.5 feet between the legs.
• Bend a little in the knees and place left palm on the left knee and right palm on the right knee.
• Bend the shoulders a little towards the front and the neck also towards the front so that the weight of the body is shifted onto the knees through the hands.
• This reduces the strain on the stomach and the muscles of the stomach can be relaxed.
• Inhale deeply and then exhale gradually.

Benefits

• The diaphragm will be moved to a great extent in this bandh, hence the muscles of the diaphragm get well exercised and this movement also helps in the regular breathing.
• When the strength and the efficiency of diaphragm is improved, the breathing system also works more efficiently.
• The bandh is also useful for spiritual progress and awakening of Kundalini power.
• The bandh is indispensable for the study of pranayama.
• The air pressure resulting in pranayama is regulated in proper direction due to the position of this bandh.

Caution

Persons suffering from stomach ailments, heart troubles or defective blood circulation should not attempt to perform the bandh. Persons suffering from diseases like hernia too should not perform this bandh.

Next Article: Kumbhaka (Breath Retention)