Pranayama, Bandha & Kumbhaka

with Brahmananda

10th & 11th October 2026
£140 / £120

Despite being integral to all classical yogic texts, Pranayama is an often overlooked aspect of yoga classes and sadhana.

About Pranayama

There are many methods, systems and variations of practicing pranayama, derived from many sources. If we wish to not only experience, but more importantly, digest the effects and benefits of pranayama on all levels, the most important thing is we follow a system of practice.

A stunning view of the golden sun shining through clouds at sunset, casting a warm glow.

There are various categories of pranayama; many observations and considerations we should be aware of if we undertake pranayama sadhana, and this is all before we have added the practice of Bandhas to the pranayama.

Bandhas involve Kumbhaka – suspension of breath. It is useful to know what is going on in the body when we practice and develop kumbhaka, and to know how to prepare the body and mind for this experience, and of course to have some understanding of why it is an aim of pranayama.

Why did the yogis develop a system of practice culminating in the spontaneous cessation of the breath!

The three bandhas of Moola bandha (the ‘root lock’ or ‘perineal lock’), Uddiyana bandha (the ‘abdominal lock’) and Jalandhara bandha (the ‘chin/throat lock’), must be mastered separately before we combine them with pranayama and with each other in Maha bandha (the ‘great lock’), where all three are practiced together.

About the course

During this weekend we will, among other things :T

Explore the meaning, theory and practice of the three bandhas
Practice and master all three locks separately and together
Experience combining these bandhas with different pranayama practices, such as Bhastrika and Nadi Shodhana
Explore the theory and practice of Kumbhaka (breath retention) and why it is the essence of the meaning of pranayama.
Consider pranayama sadhana and how to construct and develop it
Discuss precautions, adaptations and methods of deepening simple practice safely

Who is the course for

This course is for anyone wanting to deepen their understanding and experience of Pranayama

Ideally participants in this weekend will have a good few years of regular yoga practice.

Please be aware this weekend, together with asana, will involve a fair amount of extended practice of pranayama and exploration and practice of the bandhas, and hence kumbhaka.

Please be sure that this is suitable for you and if you have any doubts then get in touch before hand to discuss.

There are specific contraindications as well as sensible observations to ensure safe practice.

The teacher : Brahmananda

Brahmananda is an experienced and knowledgeable Yoga teacher. His approach is clear, systematic and down to earth.

He has taught Yoga & Meditation in many different environments. He spent many years as director and course coordinator for Satyananda Yoga Academy Europe.