The Bandhas- Unlocking the Power of the Vagus Nerve

The Bandhas are a key technique for hatha yogis, detailed in the 15th Century text Hatha Yoga Pradipika. We explore the traditional use of the bandhas as a tool for pranayama and as a physical technique.

We then investigate how current research into the nervous system, more specifically the vagus nerve, gives new insight into the bandhas as a way to stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, this is vital to maintain both physical and mental health.

The bandhas correlate directly with the path of the vagus - a cranial nerve that weaves from the brain through the body, carrying information from the body back to the brain. So we can see how the stimulation of this nerve through the bandhas can have such a significant role in maintaining mental health and supporting our meditation and pranayama practice.

In this video, join me as we explore the traditional use of the bandhas as a physical technique and as a tool for pranayama; alongside a more current investigation of the bandhas as a way to manage the nervous system through the vagus nerve.

Check out my video, Unlocking the Power of the Vagus Nerve!

To watch more, click the link to head to the YAPTA website to watch the full length video.

If you enjoyed this, why not check out our other video on The Bandhas, click here.


Follow us on Instagram for the latest science & yoga research to support your teaching and practice: @bristolschoolofyoga & @lauragilmoreyoga .

Previous
Previous

Adjustments for Half Moon pose

Next
Next

Planning a successful Yoga Business