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Master Jalandhara Bandha (Throat Lock) with this complete guide—steps, benefits, and safety tips for balanced yoga practice.
Jalandhara Bandha (जालन्धर बन्ध), or Throat Lock, is one of the three principal bandhas (energy locks) used in classical yoga. It involves tucking the chin into the chest, creating a lock in the throat region that controls the flow of prana (life energy), stimulates the thyroid, and regulates brain and heart energy pathways. Often practiced during pranayama and meditation, this bandha is essential for energy control and Kundalini awakening.
Meaning & Etymology
Sanskrit Name: जालन्धर बन्ध (Jālandhara Bandha)
Meaning:
Jala = Net or web (symbolizing the throat network)
Dhara = Holding or stream
Bandha = Lock or bind
Together, it means "the lock that controls the throat network or fluid flow", including blood, prana, and nectar (amrita).
How to Perform Jalandhara Bandha (Throat Lock)
Jalandhara Bandha is one of the three principal bandhas (energetic locks) of classical yoga, primarily affecting the throat region, cervical spine, pranic flow, endocrine system, and nervous system. It is commonly practiced in conjunction with pranayama, kumbhaka (breath retention), and meditation. More than a physical action, Jalandhara Bandha is a subtle internal seal that regulates energy, breath, and mental focus.
The key purpose of this bandha is to prevent the upward dissipation of prana, stabilize the mind, and protect the heart and brain during breath retention.
Step-by-Step Method of Practicing Jalandhara Bandha
1. Sit in a Comfortable Meditative Posture
Begin by establishing a stable and upright seated position. Suitable postures include:
Padmasana (Lotus Pose)
Siddhasana (Accomplished Pose)
Sukhasana (Easy Pose), if flexibility is limited
Alignment cues:
Spine erect but not rigid
Shoulders relaxed and rolled slightly back
Chest gently lifted
Head aligned over the spine
A firm base ensures that the bandha remains effortless rather than forced.
2. Establish Breath Awareness
Before applying the bandha, take a few natural breaths to settle the body and mind.
Purpose:
Calms the nervous system
Brings awareness to the breath
Prepares the body for controlled inhalation
The mind should be steady before proceeding further.
3. Inhale Deeply and Smoothly
Inhale slowly through the nose, allowing the lungs to fill fully but without strain.
Breathing details:
Expansion should occur in the abdomen, ribs, and chest
Breath should be silent and controlled
Avoid lifting the shoulders
This full inhalation creates the internal space necessary for the bandha.
4. Gently Tuck the Chin Into the Chest (Chin Lock)
After inhalation, lower the chin toward the chest.
Key alignment points:
Chin presses gently into the hollow at the base of the throat (jugular notch)
Back of the neck remains long and straight
Head is not forced downward
Shoulders stay relaxed and down
This action creates the throat lock, compressing the throat region without tension.
5. Apply the Internal Lock (Subtle Engagement)
Once the chin lock is established, the internal effect of Jalandhara Bandha becomes active.
Subtle sensations include:
A gentle compression in the throat
Stillness of breath
Calm alertness in the mind
This lock regulates pressure within the chest and prevents prana from rushing upward toward the head.
6. Hold the Breath (Optional Kumbhaka)
If practiced as part of pranayama, the breath may be retained gently.
Important guidance:
Breath retention should be comfortable and strain-free
Beginners may skip retention initially
The mind should remain calm, not tense
The duration of retention depends on individual capacity and experience.
7. Maintain Awareness During the Hold
While holding Jalandhara Bandha, maintain inner awareness rather than focusing on time.
Mental focus options:
Awareness of the throat region
Observation of stillness
Gentle mantra or breath awareness
This transforms the bandha from a mechanical action into a meditative practice.
8. Release the Bandha Slowly on Exhalation
To release:
First lift the chin slowly back to neutral
Then exhale smoothly through the nose
Allow the breath to return to its natural rhythm
Never exhale while the chin is still locked, as this can create strain in the throat or heart region.
Key Principles for Safe and Effective Practice
1. Gentle, Not Forceful
Jalandhara Bandha is subtle. Excessive pressure on the throat or aggressive chin locking can lead to:
Neck strain
Dizziness
Discomfort in the cervical spine
The bandha should feel supportive and calming, not restrictive.
2. Neck Alignment Is Crucial
The most common mistake is bending the neck excessively.
Correct action:
Chin lowers by elongating the back of the neck
Not by collapsing the cervical spine
This protects the neck and ensures proper pranic regulation.
3. Synchronization With Breath
Jalandhara Bandha is meaningful only when synchronized with breathing practices.
Applied after inhalation
Released before exhalation
Maintained during comfortable breath retention
Breath and bandha must move as one unit.
Physiological and Energetic Effects During Practice
Regulation of Prana
Jalandhara Bandha:
Prevents excessive upward movement of prana
Directs energy toward the heart and central channel
Balances upward and downward forces within the body
Nervous System Stabilization
The throat lock:
Activates calming parasympathetic responses
Reduces mental agitation
Encourages stillness and introspection
This makes it highly effective before meditation.
Protection of the Heart and Brain
By compressing the throat region, Jalandhara Bandha:
Regulates blood flow during breath retention
Prevents sudden pressure changes in the head
Enhances safety during advanced pranayama
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forcing the chin aggressively into the chest
Tightening shoulders or jaw
Holding breath beyond comfort
Practicing with a collapsed spine
Releasing the breath before lifting the chin
Preparatory Practices Before Jalandhara Bandha
For safer execution, it is beneficial to prepare with:
Gentle neck stretches
Shoulder opening postures
Seated spinal alignment practices
Slow breathing techniques
These reduce resistance in the neck and throat region.
Integration With Other Yogic Practices
Jalandhara Bandha is often combined with:
Pranayama techniques
Meditation practices
Internal awareness training
It is traditionally practiced after asana practice, when the body is stable and relaxed.
Jalandhara Bandha is a refined yogic technique that harmonizes breath, energy, and awareness through the gentle locking of the throat region. When practiced correctly, it stabilizes the nervous system, regulates pranic flow, and deepens meditative absorption. The essence of this bandha lies not in force or duration, but in precision, gentleness, and inner awareness. With patience and mindful practice, Jalandhara Bandha becomes a powerful gateway to deeper pranayama and meditation.
Benefits of Jalandhara Bandha (Throat Lock)
Jalandhara Bandha is one of the three principal bandhas (energetic locks) of classical yoga, along with Mula Bandha and Uddiyana Bandha. It is primarily practiced during pranayama, kumbhaka (breath retention), and meditation, where it plays a crucial role in regulating prana, protecting the nervous system, and stabilizing consciousness. Though subtle in appearance, its effects are profound, influencing the endocrine system, nervous system, brain, subtle energy channels, and higher states of awareness.
I. Physical Benefits
1. Regulates Thyroid and Parathyroid Glands
Jalandhara Bandha involves gently lowering the chin toward the sternum, creating controlled compression in the throat region.
Physiological impact:
Stimulates the thyroid gland, supporting balanced metabolism
Supports parathyroid function, aiding calcium regulation and bone health
Helps normalize hormonal fluctuations when practiced regularly and gently
This regulation is especially beneficial in yogic systems where hormonal balance is considered essential for mental stability and spiritual progress.
2. Improves Blood Flow to the Brain (Without Overpressure)
Unlike inverted postures that rely on gravity, Jalandhara Bandha regulates cerebral circulation through neurovascular control.
Key benefits:
Prevents excessive blood rush to the head during breath retention
Maintains optimal cerebral oxygenation
Reduces dizziness, pressure headaches, and light-headedness during pranayama
This makes it a protective mechanism, especially during advanced breathing practices.
3. Stimulates the Vagus Nerve and Parasympathetic Response
The throat region is closely linked to the vagus nerve, a major regulator of the parasympathetic nervous system.
Effects include:
Reduction in heart rate
Lowering of stress hormones
Induction of calm, restorative states
This explains why Jalandhara Bandha is highly effective in reducing anxiety, agitation, and nervous instability.
4. Protects the Ears, Eyes, and Brain During Pranayama
During kumbhaka, internal pressure can rise sharply.
Jalandhara Bandha:
Prevents pressure imbalance in the ears and sinuses
Protects delicate cranial structures
Prevents strain on the optic nerves and inner ear
Without this bandha, pranayama—especially breath retention—can become unsafe.
5. Stabilizes the Cervical Spine and Neck Awareness
When practiced correctly (without force), Jalandhara Bandha:
Encourages proper cervical alignment
Reduces unconscious neck tension
Cultivates neuromuscular awareness in the throat and upper spine
This improves posture and supports long seated practices.
II. Mental & Energetic Benefits
6. Calms the Mind and Nervous System
Jalandhara Bandha directly influences manas (the sensory mind) by reducing sensory stimulation.
Mental effects:
Slows mental fluctuations
Reduces emotional reactivity
Promotes clarity and inner quiet
It is especially effective for individuals prone to overthinking or restlessness.
7. Enhances Focus, Concentration, and Dharana
The throat lock creates a downward sealing of sensory impulses, helping the mind turn inward.
Benefits include:
Improved attention span
Greater mental steadiness
Reduced distraction during meditation
This makes Jalandhara Bandha a powerful aid for Dharana (concentration).
8. Retains Amrita (Nectar of Immortality)
In yogic physiology, amrita is believed to drip from higher centers and be preserved through proper bandha practice.
Jalandhara Bandha:
Prevents the downward dissipation of subtle essence
Protects vital energy from premature loss
Supports longevity and vitality according to yogic doctrine
This concept symbolically represents energy conservation and refinement.
9. Prevents Pranic Dissipation During Kumbhaka
During breath retention, prana becomes highly active.
Jalandhara Bandha:
Seals prana within the torso
Prevents it from dispersing upward into sensory channels
Directs energy toward the sushumna nadi
This containment is essential for higher yogic practices.
10. Balances Vishuddhi Chakra (Throat Energy Center)
The throat is the seat of Vishuddhi Chakra, associated with purification, truth, and expression.
Energetic effects:
Clears blockages in the throat region
Balances expression and silence
Refines communication between heart and intellect
Balanced Vishuddhi leads to clarity in speech, thought, and inner perception.
III. Spiritual Benefits
11. Supports Kundalini Awakening (Safely and Gradually)
Jalandhara Bandha is essential for safe Kundalini movement.
Spiritual role:
Prevents premature upward energy rush
Stabilizes ascending prana
Allows gradual awakening without psychological disturbance
Without this bandha, spiritual practices may become destabilizing.
12. Facilitates Pratyahara (Withdrawal of the Senses)
Jalandhara Bandha naturally reduces sensory input.
Effects:
Dulls external sensory distractions
Encourages inward awareness
Bridges the transition from pranayama to meditation
This aligns directly with the yogic stage of Pratyahara.
13. Deepens Meditative Absorption (Dhyana)
By stabilizing breath, mind, and energy simultaneously, Jalandhara Bandha:
Reduces effort in meditation
Allows longer periods of stillness
Encourages spontaneous absorption
Meditation becomes effortless rather than forced.
14. Supports Inner Silence and Witness Awareness
As mental noise subsides, practitioners experience:
Increased inner silence
Heightened self-observation
Detachment from sensory identity
This lays the foundation for deeper spiritual insight.
IV. Subtle Yogic Significance
In classical yoga, Jalandhara Bandha is not merely a physical lock but a gateway between body and consciousness.
It:
Harmonizes prana and apana
Aligns breath with awareness
Protects the practitioner at all levels—physical, mental, and spiritual
Its mastery is considered essential for serious yogic aspirants.
Jalandhara Bandha is a subtle yet powerful yogic technique that safeguards the practitioner while unlocking deeper layers of breath, energy, and awareness. Physically, it regulates the endocrine and nervous systems; mentally, it calms and focuses the mind; energetically, it conserves and channels prana; spiritually, it supports pratyahara, meditation, and the gradual awakening of higher consciousness. Far from being a mere neck movement, Jalandhara Bandha is a central pillar of classical pranayama and meditative discipline, embodying the yogic principle of control through awareness rather than force.
Precautions & Contraindications of Jalandhara Bandha (Throat Lock)
Jalandhara Bandha is one of the three classical yogic locks (bandhas) and plays a crucial role in pranayama, energy regulation, and advanced yogic practices. It involves a deliberate lowering of the chin toward the chest, creating a lock in the throat region that influences the nervous system, endocrine glands, respiratory control, and subtle energy flow.
While Jalandhara Bandha offers profound benefits—such as regulating prana, calming the mind, and supporting meditative stability—it is also a sensitive and advanced technique. Incorrect practice or application in unsuitable conditions may lead to discomfort or adverse effects. Therefore, understanding its precautions and contraindications is essential for safe and effective practice.
A. Major Contraindications (Avoid or Practice Only Under Strict Guidance)
1. Cervical Spine Disorders or Chronic Neck Stiffness
Jalandhara Bandha places controlled flexion on the cervical spine.
Avoid or modify if you have:
Cervical spondylosis
Disc bulges or degeneration in the neck
Chronic neck pain or stiffness
History of whiplash or neck trauma
Why caution is necessary:
Excessive or forced neck flexion may compress cervical vertebrae, irritate nerves, and worsen existing conditions.
Safer approach:
Practice only partial chin lowering or avoid the bandha entirely until the neck is healthy and flexible.
2. High Intracranial Pressure or Glaucoma
Jalandhara Bandha alters pressure dynamics within the head, neck, and cranial cavity.
Avoid if you have:
Glaucoma
History of retinal detachment
High intracranial pressure
Severe or chronic headaches
Reason:
The throat lock can increase pressure in the head and eyes, potentially aggravating sensitive conditions.
Professional medical guidance is advised before attempting this practice.
3. Vertigo, Dizziness, or Balance Disorders
Jalandhara Bandha influences blood flow and neural feedback from the neck and inner ear.
Avoid or practice cautiously if you experience:
Vertigo
Frequent dizziness
Inner ear disorders
Sudden drops in blood pressure
Potential risks:
Loss of balance
Light-headedness
Disorientation after release
In such cases, even mild application should be avoided unless guided by an experienced teacher.
4. Throat, Thyroid, or Respiratory Infections
The bandha directly affects the throat region, including the larynx and thyroid gland.
Avoid during:
Sore throat or tonsillitis
Laryngitis
Thyroid inflammation
Severe cough or respiratory infections
Why:
Applying pressure during inflammation may worsen symptoms and delay healing.
Practice should resume only after full recovery.
5. Pregnancy
Jalandhara Bandha is generally not recommended during pregnancy.
Reason:
It is commonly combined with breath retention
Alters pranic flow and internal pressure
May create unnecessary strain on the nervous system
Gentle breathing techniques without locks are more appropriate during this period.
6. Recent Surgery or Post-Operative Recovery
Avoid Jalandhara Bandha if you have recently undergone:
Neck or spinal surgery
Chest or abdominal surgery
Any procedure affecting breathing or circulation
Allow full recovery before reintroducing advanced pranayama techniques.
B. Breath-Related Precautions
1. Avoid Breath Retention Without Preparation
Jalandhara Bandha is often practiced with kumbhaka (breath retention), which intensifies its effects.
Risks of improper retention:
Oxygen deprivation
Sudden blood pressure changes
Anxiety or panic sensations
Guideline:
Never practice breath retention unless:
You have a stable pranayama practice
The nervous system feels calm
You are under expert supervision
2. Do Not Practice on a Full Stomach
Applying Jalandhara Bandha after meals may:
Disrupt digestion
Cause nausea or discomfort
Increase internal pressure
Practice only on an empty stomach or several hours after eating.
C. Structural & Alignment-Based Precautions
1. Ensure Proper Neck Alignment
A common mistake is forcing the chin down.
Correct alignment:
Chin gently rests near the hollow of the throat
Neck remains elongated, not compressed
Shoulders relaxed, not hunched
The movement should be subtle and controlled, not aggressive.
2. Avoid Jerking or Sudden Movements
Sudden dropping or lifting of the head can strain cervical muscles and nerves.
Safe practice:
Lower the chin slowly
Release gradually after breath cycle
Maintain awareness throughout
Smooth transitions protect the neck and nervous system.
3. Maintain Upright Spinal Posture
Slouching while applying Jalandhara Bandha reduces effectiveness and increases strain.
Postural cues:
Spine erect
Chest gently lifted
Shoulders relaxed downward
Proper posture allows safe pranic regulation.
D. Tips for Safe Practice (Expanded & Practical)
1. Learn Under Qualified Guidance
Jalandhara Bandha is not a beginner technique.
Learning under guidance ensures:
Correct alignment
Appropriate breath coordination
Gradual progression
Self-experimentation without knowledge may lead to strain.
2. Begin Without Breath Retention
Beginners may first familiarize themselves with:
Gentle chin lowering
Normal breathing
Short durations
This builds neuromuscular awareness before deeper practice.
3. Keep the Face, Jaw, and Throat Relaxed
Tension in the jaw or throat indicates improper effort.
Signs of over-effort:
Jaw clenching
Throat tightness
Facial tension
Relaxation is essential for effectiveness.
4. Practice for Short Durations
Initially:
Hold only for a few seconds
Focus on comfort and stability
Gradually increase duration with experience
Long holds are not necessary for benefit.
5. Observe After-Effects Carefully
After releasing Jalandhara Bandha:
Sit quietly
Observe breath and mental state
Avoid sudden movements
This helps integrate its effects smoothly.
E. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Forcing the chin into the chest
Practicing with pain or discomfort
Holding breath beyond comfort
Practicing during illness or fatigue
Ignoring dizziness or pressure sensations
Discomfort is a signal to stop, not to persist.
Jalandhara Bandha is a subtle yet powerful yogic technique that profoundly influences respiration, circulation, endocrine balance, and mental steadiness. However, due to its direct impact on the neck, throat, and nervous system, it must be practiced with great care, awareness, and preparation. Individuals with cervical spine issues, eye pressure disorders, vertigo, infections, pregnancy, or recent surgery should avoid or strictly modify this practice. By maintaining proper alignment, avoiding force, practicing under guidance, and progressing gradually, Jalandhara Bandha can be integrated safely into advanced yogic practice, supporting deeper pranayama and meditative states.
Variations & Advanced Integration
(Kumbhaka, Maha Bandha & Jalandhara Bandha in Higher Pranayama)
As pranayama evolves from basic breath regulation into advanced yogic discipline, it becomes inseparable from bandhas (energetic locks) and kumbhaka (breath retention). These practices are not merely mechanical breath techniques but methods of pranic redirection, nervous system mastery, and inner absorption. The integrations below represent higher yogic application, meant only for practitioners with a stable foundation in asana, basic pranayama, and body awareness.
1. Integration with Kumbhaka (Breath Retention)
A. Understanding Kumbhaka in Advanced Practice
Kumbhaka literally means “pot” — symbolizing the body-mind system holding prana steadily without leakage. In advanced pranayama, kumbhaka is not forced breath-holding, but a natural suspension of breath arising from internal balance.
There are two primary forms:
Antara Kumbhaka – retention after inhalation
Bahya Kumbhaka – retention after exhalation
Each has distinct physiological, neurological, and energetic effects.
B. Antara Kumbhaka (After Inhalation)
Application:
Performed after a slow, deep inhalation
Chest is expanded, lungs full
Mind remains alert and inwardly focused
Physiological Effects:
Increases oxygen saturation temporarily
Activates sympathetic awareness with conscious control
Strengthens respiratory muscles
Energetic Effects:
Expands prana in the chest (Anahata region)
Encourages upward movement of energy
Supports awakening of higher awareness
Advanced Integration:
Jalandhara Bandha is gently applied to protect the brain and heart
Mula Bandha may be subtly engaged to prevent downward pranic leakage
Retention is brief, smooth, and strain-free
Antara kumbhaka is commonly integrated into Bhastrika, Sama Vritti, and advanced Nadi Shodhana.
C. Bahya Kumbhaka (After Exhalation)
Application:
Performed after complete, relaxed exhalation
Lungs are comfortably empty
Abdomen naturally draws inward
Physiological Effects:
Enhances carbon dioxide tolerance
Activates parasympathetic dominance
Improves vagal tone and calmness
Energetic Effects:
Draws prana inward and upward
Reduces sensory agitation
Deepens internal stillness
Advanced Integration:
Uddiyana Bandha arises naturally after exhalation
Mula Bandha stabilizes pelvic energy
Jalandhara Bandha seals prana in the central channel
Bahya kumbhaka is subtle, powerful, and central to inner absorption (antaranga sadhana).
2. Maha Bandha – The Great Energetic Lock
A. What is Maha Bandha?
Maha Bandha is the simultaneous application of three bandhas:
Mula Bandha – pelvic floor lock
Uddiyana Bandha – abdominal lift
Jalandhara Bandha – throat lock
It is considered an advanced internal practice, not a muscular contraction but a neuromuscular–energetic coordination.
B. Proper Sequence of Application
Maha Bandha is traditionally applied during kumbhaka, most often during bahya kumbhaka.
Sequence:
Complete exhalation
Natural pause arises
Apply Uddiyana Bandha
Engage Mula Bandha
Lower chin gently into Jalandhara Bandha
The order matters because it respects the natural movement of prana.
C. Physiological & Neurological Effects
Regulates intra-abdominal and thoracic pressure
Stabilizes blood flow to the brain
Improves endocrine gland communication
Balances autonomic nervous system
D. Energetic Significance
Energetically, Maha Bandha:
Prevents dissipation of prana
Forces energy into the central channel (Sushumna)
Creates internal pressure for subtle awakening
Supports deep meditative absorption
It is traditionally practiced sparingly, consciously, and without strain.
3. Jalandhara Bandha within Pranayama Cycles
A. Role of Jalandhara Bandha
Jalandhara Bandha (throat lock) is the most crucial safety bandha in pranayama involving kumbhaka.
Primary Functions:
Protects the brain from pressure fluctuations
Regulates blood flow through carotid arteries
Controls upward movement of prana
Stabilizes heart rhythm
B. Anatomical & Nervous System Impact
Stimulates vagus nerve
Influences thyroid and parathyroid glands
Calms excessive sympathetic arousal
Enhances parasympathetic response
Because of this, Jalandhara Bandha is essential in retentive breathing practices.
C. Use in Specific Pranayama Practices
1. Bhastrika Pranayama
Applied during retention phases
Prevents dizziness and overheating
Balances intensity of rapid breathing
2. Sama Vritti (Equal Ratio Breathing)
Maintains rhythmic balance
Encourages steady mental focus
Allows longer, safer kumbhaka
3. Advanced Nadi Shodhana
Supports pranic balance between ida and pingala
Stabilizes subtle channels
Prepares practitioner for meditative stillness
In all cases, Jalandhara Bandha should be gentle and effortless, never forced.
4. Progressive Integration Strategy (Important)
Advanced integration must follow a progressive hierarchy:
Stage 1: Mastery of Breath Awareness
Smooth inhalation and exhalation
No breath retention
Comfortable seated posture
Stage 2: Introduction of Mild Kumbhaka
Short, natural pauses
No bandhas initially
Emphasis on comfort
Stage 3: Single Bandha Awareness
Learning Mula, Uddiyana, Jalandhara separately
No combination yet
Stage 4: Combined Bandhas with Short Kumbhaka
Only under guidance
Minimal duration
Strong emphasis on relaxation
Skipping stages may lead to:
Nervous system imbalance
Pressure-related discomfort
Mental agitation
5. Precautions in Advanced Integration
Never practice kumbhaka or Maha Bandha with force
Avoid if there is uncontrolled hypertension, heart disease, or severe anxiety
Always release bandhas before inhalation
If dizziness or strain arises, discontinue immediately
Advanced pranayama is about refinement, not intensity.
6. Meditative Dimension of Advanced Integration
When practiced correctly, these integrations:
Reduce breath rate significantly
Lead to spontaneous breath suspension
Quiet sensory input (pratyahara)
Prepare the mind for dharana and dhyana
At higher levels, kumbhaka ceases to be an action and becomes a state.
The advanced integration of Kumbhaka, Maha Bandha, and Jalandhara Bandha represents the inner core of classical pranayama. These practices move beyond physical breath control into the realms of pranic regulation, nervous system mastery, and meditative absorption. When approached progressively, gently, and with awareness, they refine energy flow, stabilize the mind, and prepare the practitioner for deeper yogic states. Their true power lies not in duration or force, but in precision, stillness, and inner sensitivity.
Conclusion
Jalandhara Bandha is a powerful yogic technique that governs vital energy, throat health, and mental equilibrium. It is essential for pranayama mastery and spiritual elevation, providing a foundation for higher yogic practices like dharana and dhyana.
Reference
Haṭha Yoga Pradīpikā – Svātmārāma
Chapter III (Bandhas)
Describes Jālandhara Bandha as the throat lock that restrains prāṇa in the chest and prevents the upward dissipation of nectar (amṛta).
Emphasized as essential in kumbhaka practices.
Gheraṇḍa Saṁhitā – Gheraṇḍa
Explains the technique, effects on prāṇa flow, and its role in balancing the six chakras.
Highlights its importance in prāṇāyāma and meditation.
Śiva Saṁhitā – Anonymous
Mentions Jālandhara Bandha as a key lock for controlling prāṇa vāyu and stabilizing the mind.
Haṭha Ratnāvalī – Śrīnivāsa Yogī
Provides further clarification on the energetic role of Jālandhara Bandha.
Yoga Darśana with Vyāsa Bhāṣya – Patañjali & Vyāsa
Though not naming bandhas directly, explains prāṇa-nirodha, breath regulation, and mental steadiness—concepts that underpin Jālandhara Bandha.
The Science of Prāṇāyāma – Swami Śivānanda Saraswati
Detailed explanation of technique, benefits, and contraindications.
Highlights its role in protecting the heart and brain during breath retention.
Light on Yoga & Light on Prāṇāyāma – B.K.S. Iyengar
Anatomical precision in neck alignment and therapeutic insights.
Discusses the lock’s role in safe pranayama practice.
Prāṇa and Prāṇāyāma – Swami Niranjanananda Saraswati
Explains pranic containment, chakra activation, and subtle physiology.
The Serpent Power – Sir John Woodroffe (Arthur Avalon)
Discusses the Vishuddha Chakra, nectar retention, and pranic seals.
Yoga Anatomy – Leslie Kaminoff & Amy Matthews
Provides a modern anatomical explanation of neck flexion, vagal stimulation, and baroreceptor response.
Aṣṭāṅga Hṛdayam – Vāgbhaṭa
Relevant for understanding vāta-pitta balance and throat-related vitality.
Caraka Saṁhitā
Concepts of udāna vāyu, voice, and throat health that align with Jālandhara Bandha.
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