Maan Bandha

Maan Bandha is a lock (bandha) involving the contraction of the throat region in Hatha Yoga.

Overview

Maan Bandha is a bandha that engages the muscles of the throat and neck, compressing the region of the vishuddhi chakra. It is related to jalandhara bandha but involves a more specific muscular engagement of the throat.

Method/Content

In Maan Bandha, the practitioner draws the chin toward the chest and simultaneously contracts the throat muscles, as if swallowing against resistance. The chin lock is maintained while the breath is retained. The practice is typically performed during kumbhaka and combined with mula bandha and uddiyana bandha in maha bandha.

Purpose/Benefits

Maan Bandha is believed to regulate the flow of prana in the throat region and stimulate vishuddhi chakra. It helps prevent prana from escaping upward through the mouth and nose. The practice is also said to benefit the thyroid gland and improve communication.

Verification Notes

• Referenced in classical Hatha Yoga texts
• Sometimes considered a variation of jalandhara bandha
• Should be practiced with caution and proper guidance