Jalandhara Bandha is one of the three primary bandhas (energy locks) in yoga practice. The term comes from Sanskrit where ‘jala’ means ‘net’ or ‘web’ and ‘dhara’ means ‘stream’ or ‘flow’.
This throat lock is performed by contracting the throat slightly and bringing the chin down to rest in the notch between the collarbones. When properly executed the practitioner creates a seal that prevents prana (life force energy) from escaping upward while redirecting it into the central energy channel (sushumna nadi).
Jalandhara Bandha is often practiced during pranayama (breathing exercises) particularly in Kumbhaka (breath retention). It helps regulate the flow of energy and blood to the heart brain and endocrine glands. The slight pressure applied to the throat stimulates the thyroid and parathyroid glands which can help balance metabolism.
Benefits of practicing Jalandhara Bandha include:
• Stimulation of the thyroid gland
• Regulation of blood pressure
• Improved concentration
• Enhanced respiratory function
• Balanced nervous system
• Reduced anxiety
This bandha is contraindicated for individuals with high blood pressure heart problems cervical spondylitis or those who are pregnant. Beginners should learn this practice under the guidance of an experienced teacher as improper execution may lead to discomfort or strain.
Jalandhara Bandha is frequently combined with other bandhas like Mula Bandha (root lock) and Uddiyana Bandha (abdominal lock) to form Maha Bandha (the great lock) which is considered a powerful practice for awakening kundalini energy and achieving higher states of consciousness in traditional yoga.
