Jalandhara Bhanda is located at the trough level, the highest level in the body. It directs the energy of the central channel which prevents the energy from dispersing to other areas of the body (eyes or ears). It seals the energy generated by the areas of the brain stem .
Jala means watery secretions of the brain, and Dhara means open gate. Yogi Bhajan explains how the higher glands(pituitary, pineal, and hypothalamus) are stimulated to secrete hormones by doing certain practices. These glands are also related to one another. The pituitary secretions have been represented as a cooling flow that mixes with the heated flow of the navel and other low areas. Applying this lock connects these secretions and opens the relation between them. It also helps to concentration by bringing your focus and attention inwards.
To apply Jalandhara Bhanda, sit comfortably with the spine straight. One must strengthen the neck by bringing the head back and the chin slightly in and back. It seems as if the pyloric valve will close. Not to be confused with just bringing the chin towards your chest. This can be applied while holding the breath in or holding the breath out. This is generally used during chanting and meditation unless otherwise specified.
Bhanda Table of Contents