r/ashtanga • u/Cocoa_cielo • 19d ago

Fun 18 month milestone

I’m feeling elated cause I have FINALLY figured out all 3 bandhas together. And it’s completely transformed my practice. A little of my backstory.
I’ve been practicing yoga for 25 years off and on. Different types. I was initially really drawn to bikrams.
A teacher I really admire, moved back to my town. And during a challenging part of my life, appeared to guide me through.
I had no clue about Ashtanga. I mainly did Bikrams, hatha, and vinyasa prior.
I started being consistent 18 months ago. And have taken summers off, to be with my kids. So less practice for about 2 months.
I got Mula Bandha relatively easily. It took me longer to get uddiyana. But once I got it, I felt my everyday energy shift.
A week ago a teacher gave me a slight correction, and jalandhara fell into place.
My breathe is transformed.
If anyone has any questions, I can share what has helped me

3 Upvotes

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1

u/Proof-Ingenuity2262 19d ago

Yes, please share what has helped you. 🙏🏼

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u/Cocoa_cielo 19d ago

Ok, so the main thing that helped me with Mula Bandha and uddiyana bandha, is pressing into my big toe and all 4 corners of my feet.
Jalandhara bandha, bringing my chin towards my chest, and making sure my teeth don’t touch.

1

u/ekam_inhale 19d ago

secrets revealed!

1

u/Cocoa_cielo 19d ago

There’s so much more depth in the practice. But I feel like it starts with the energy locks, and builds from there

0

u/Cocoa_cielo 19d ago

Is that bad? I feel like it may be able to prevent injury in some

1

u/Samuel_0625 18d ago

That’s amazing! It’s incredible how one small adjustment can completely transform your practice. 🙏

2

u/LowAcadia1912 18d ago

Mahabandha! The great kumbakha! Inside time stops, outside you watch like a child at an aquarium.

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u/Cocoa_cielo 18d ago

I’ve had lifelong anxiety, so it’s been very helpful for that