Practicing Uddiyana Bandha

Surprisingly (or not), my posture practice is leading me into more mind-body connection exercises like Pranayama (Breath and Energy Control), Bandhas (Muscle/Energy Locks) and specific muscle control.

The pictures above are of Uddiyana Bandha (Flying Lock). The breath is expelled completely and held out. Then the muscles pull in as if taking a breath, but without letting any air in. The result is the diaphragm muscle pulling up into the chest cavity and the abdominal cavity sucking inward toward the spine and upward. 

I have been practicing this for a few months now, and I have seen significant improvements in my muscle control and my abdominal strength. At first, it was very awkward and uncomfortable in the muscles and also in the intestines which are getting compressed in the belly. 

Over time, my muscle contraction has gotten more consistent and requires less effort. Also, my intestines respond better to the compression, leading me to believe they are functioning better and there is less stagnant material within.

Practicing this bandha/lock and others has brought an increase in my general energy, improved focus and improved digestion.