Bandha Mudra Kriya Kriya are cleansing techniques using breath and meditation or even physical tools such as a ‘Neti’ nasal cleansing pot, linen cloth, warm salt water etc. We do not practice these Kriya's in Sacred Spiral, but rather use emotional and psychological releasing techniques such as Completion, EFT (emotional Freedom Technique) and Diet and Lifestyle suggestions. Patanjali refers to his system of Yoga in his sutras as 'Kriya', not "Raja'. Although his text is usually considered one of the definitive texts for Raja Yoga (Meditation path) . When we really examine, they equate to the same thing. Traditional Yoga Kriya Mudra and Bandha. A Mudra is as ‘seal’. This is an ‘energy seal’ engaged deliberately within the body. In a sense all Asanas are Mudras since one of the primary functions of a Yoga posture is to channel our energy in various ways. However, there are many dedicated Mudras that cannot be classified as Asanas. For example all the hand/finger Mudras. These are seen prolifically in Indian Classical dancing as well as some yoga systems. A Bandha is a 'Lock'. This usually considerably restricts energy flow within various channels in the body, for example the lotus position, although not really constricting our blood flow when performed correctly, locks in the intrinsic energy flowing in our upper body, preventing the natural ebb and flow through the legs and feet. This may sound dismaying but when practiced for specific reasons for specific times, can be beneficial. Specific to Hatha Yoga are some important Mudras (energy seals) and Bandhas (locks) Asvini Mudra – anal sphincter grip Jalandhara Bandha – chin lock Uddiyana bandha – pelvic floor plus full abdominal and large diaphragm contraction. Maha Mudra – similar to uddiyana but performed in Janu Sirsasana Mula Bandha – similar to Asvini but includes the entire pelvic floor. Kechari Mudra - Tongue to the soft palate for a strong energy connecting of Governor and Conception Channels. Shambavi Mudra - Eyes rolled up to gaze at the crown point. This dramatically redirects our attention from it's usual targets and heightens or directs awareness to the Sahasraha and Ajna Cakras. Merudanda Mudra - Finger tips lightly into the palms, thumbs stretched gently, hands resting on the knees. Channels energy (Prana) into the physical lung mechanics. Great for Pranayama and resting between Pranic breathing cycles. The Bandhas and Kriyas are usually performed after exhalation except for Maha Mudra which is performed after inhalation. Shambavi and Kechari Mudra can be performed continuously in Meditation along with MeruDanda Mudra.
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