7. ENGAGE YOUR BANDHAS

In the physical practice of arm balancing, Bandhas are energetic locks that create lightness in the body.

This leads to a feeling of being able to fly rather than being stuck to the ground!

The two major bandhas that are most relevant for arm balances are Uddiyanabandha and Mulabandha.

• Mulabandha, often referred to as the "root lock” involves engaging the muscles of the pelvic floor. This activation is utilized to cultivate stability, balance, and control throughout our arm balances.
  
  By contracting the muscles at the base of the pelvis, Mulabandha helps to create a solid foundation, providing support and grounding from which to lift and balance the body.
  
  
• Uddiyana Bandha, known as the "abdominal lock" or “upward flying lock” involves a contraction and lift of the lower abdominal muscles upward and inward towards the spine.
  
  By engaging Uddiyana Bandha, we fire up our core, providing essential support and stability for the spine and pelvis during our arm balances.

Check out my video about the Bandhas: