Maha Bandha

Maha Bandha (महा बन्ध) is the “great lock,” a combined practice of the three primary bandhas (mula bandha, uddiyana bandha, and jalandhara bandha) performed simultaneously. It is described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika as one of the most powerful techniques for controlling prana and awakening kundalini.

Overview

Maha Bandha integrates all three bandhas into a single practice, creating a complete seal of prana within the body. The Hatha Yoga Pradipika (Chapter 3) states that by this practice, the yogi can direct prana through the sushumna nadi and thereby achieve liberation. The practice is considered essential for advanced pranayama and meditation, and is said to destroy the seeds of karma and grant the practitioner mastery over the body and mind.

Method

The practitioner sits in siddhasana (perfect posture) with the left heel pressed against the perineum. After completing nadi shodhanaa](/entry/shodhana) pranayama, the practitioner performs a complete exhalation, then applies jalandhara bandha (chin lock), followed by uddiyana bandha (abdominal lock), and finally mula bandha (root lock). All three bandhas are held simultaneously for as long as comfortable during kumbhaka (breath retention). The bandhas are then released in reverse order: mula bandha first, then uddiyana bandha, and finally jalandhara bandha, followed by a slow inhalation.

Benefits and Purpose

Traditional texts claim Maha Bandha:

• Seals prana completely within the body
• Forces prana into the sushumna nadi
• Destroys the seeds of karma
• Awakens kundalini shakti
• Grants mastery over the body and mind
• Is the foremost of all bandha practices

Verification Notes

• Described in the Hatha Yoga Pradipika (3.19-3.21).
• Referenced in the Shiva Samhita and Gheranda Samhita.
• The practice requires mastery of the three individual bandhas.
• Audited against Wikipedia (September 2026).