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.