Yoga is not just about physical postures; it is a deep spiritual science that includes various mudras (gestures), bandhas (locks), and kriyas (practices) that enhance energy flow in the body. In this blog, we will explore some advanced yoga techniques such as Mahamudra, Mahabandha, Mahavedha, Khechari, Uddiyana, Mula Bandha, Jalandhara Bandha, Viparita Karani, Vajroli, and Shaktichalini.

1. Mahamudra (The Great Gesture)

Mahamudra is considered one of the most powerful mudras in yoga. It balances prana (life energy) and awakens spiritual consciousness.

How to Practice Mahamudra:

·      Sit in Dandasana (Staff Pose).

·      Bend your left leg and place the foot near the perineum.

·      Inhale deeply and hold the big toe of the right foot with both hands.

·      Perform Jalandhara Bandha (chin lock) and Mula Bandha (root lock).

·      Hold the breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly.

·      Repeat on the other side.

Sanskrit Shloka:

"Mahamudraṁ namaskṛtya sarva-pāpa-praṇāśanam | Sukhadaṁ mokṣadaṁ caiva yogināṁ hitakārakam ||" (Meaning: Mahamudra removes all sins, brings happiness, and leads to liberation.)

2. Mahabandha (The Great Lock)

This practice combines all three bandhas (Mula, Uddiyana, and Jalandhara) to channel prana into the central energy channel (Sushumna Nadi).

How to Practice Mahabandha:

·      Sit in Padmasana (Lotus Pose) or Siddhasana (Accomplished Pose).

·      Inhale deeply and hold the breath.

·      Engage Mula Bandha, Uddiyana Bandha, and Jalandhara Bandha simultaneously.

·      Hold for a few seconds and release.

3. Mahavedha (The Great Piercing)

Mahavedha further intensifies Mahabandha to awaken Kundalini energy.

How to Practice Mahavedha:

·      Sit in the Mahabandha position.

·      While holding the bandhas, lift the body slightly and drop it down gently.

·      This creates vibrations in the spinal column, activating energy channels.

4. Khechari Mudra (The Space-Piercing Gesture)

This is an advanced practice where the tongue is extended back into the nasal cavity to activate higher consciousness.

How to Practice Khechari Mudra:

·      Roll the tongue upward and try to reach the soft palate.

·      With practice, extend the tongue further into the nasal cavity.

·      Meditate while maintaining the posture.

Shloka: "Khecarīṁ siddhimāpnoti nityaṁ yogī samāhitaḥ | Śarīraṁ cāmaratvaṁ ca khecarī sādhayed dhruvam ||" (Meaning: A yogi who perfects Khechari attains divine abilities and immortality.)

5. Uddiyana Bandha (Abdominal Lock)

Uddiyana Bandha is an energy lock that strengthens digestion and awakens Kundalini.

How to Practice Uddiyana Bandha:

·      Stand or sit with a straight spine.

·      Exhale completely and suck the abdomen inwards and upwards.

·      Hold the breath and release slowly.

6. Mula Bandha (Root Lock)

Mula Bandha controls the root chakra (Muladhara) and directs energy upwards.

How to Practice Mula Bandha:

·      Sit in a comfortable meditative pose.

·      Contract the perineal muscles (as if stopping urination).

·      Hold the contraction and breathe normally.

7. Jalandhara Bandha (Chin Lock)

Jalandhara Bandha directs energy upwards and is often used in pranayama.

How to Practice Jalandhara Bandha:

·      Sit in a meditative posture.

·      Inhale deeply and tuck the chin into the chest.

·      Hold the breath and release slowly.

8. Viparita Karani (Inverted Pose)

Viparita Karani helps in reversing aging and balancing hormones.

How to Practice Viparita Karani:

·      Lie on the back and lift the legs up against a wall.

·      Support the hips with hands and hold the position.

9. Vajroli Mudra (Thunderbolt Gesture)

Vajroli is used for controlling sexual energy and directing it to higher chakras.

How to Practice Vajroli Mudra:

·      Sit in a meditative posture.

·      Contract the urinary muscles and perineum area.

·      Hold and release slowly.

10. Shaktichalini Mudra (Energy Awakening Gesture)

Shaktichalini awakens Kundalini and strengthens the nervous system.

How to Practice Shaktichalini:

·      Sit in a meditative posture.

·      Perform Ujjayi Pranayama and contract the lower abdomen.

·      Focus on moving energy upwards through the spine.

 

These powerful yogic techniques require practice, patience, and guidance from an experienced teacher. They purify the mind and body, awaken dormant energy, and lead to higher states of consciousness.

Stay dedicated to your practice and experience the profound benefits of yoga!