Embodying the Bandhas with Patty Townsend

A 4-hour experiential workshop exploring the three primary bandhas and their relationship to the core-body diaphragms. Each bandha follows the shape and inherent movement of one or more of these diaphragms, and when tuned to with sensitivity, bandhas become delightfully energizing and comfortable.

Mula Bandha — The Pelvic Diaphragm
Mula Bandha organizes the pelvic diaphragm and contains life force at the base. Through this root containment, prana is stimulated to rise and coalesce in the energetic hub of the low abdomen just above.

Udiyana Bandha — The Thoracic Diaphragm
Practiced on exhalation, Udiyana Bandha follows the upward doming thoracic diaphragm to its completion, providing a still resting place for a yielding heart.

Jalandhara Bandha — The Vocal Diaphragm and Soft Palate
Jalandhara Bandha engages the vocal diaphragm in concert with the soft palate at the roof of the mouth. It caps and contains the top as prana churns, balances, and enlivens below — keeping the brain cool and encouraging the opening of the central channel, sushumna nadi.

Throughout the workshop, participants will explore subtle inner sensing, effective inner movement, and a new paradigm for full, unstrained diaphragmatic breathing.

Explore what it means to breathe in a new way

Expand your inner sensing and feeling of breathing

Access subtle and effective inner movement

Learn a new paradigm for diaphragmatic breathing

Breathe fully without strain

Practice Mula Bandha to organize the pelvic diaphragm and contain life force at the base

Practice Udiyana Bandha to follow the upward doming thoracic diaphragm

Practice Jalandhara Bandha to engage the vocal diaphragm and soft palate

Open the central channel (sushumna nadi) through bandha practice