In my usual Monday class last week we were discussing how to direct the flow of prana, or life-force.  One way to direct prana is through the use of Mula Bandha, the “root lock”.  

To help his students find Mula Bandha, Richard Freeman, an Ashtanga Yoga Teacher, offers this hint: “If you exhale very fully and smoothly, you’ll notice that the end of exhalation creates a natural toning in the pelvic floor muscles that allows you to get the last of the breath out.  This is the point where Mula Bandha is set.  It’s really complex but really simple.”

I have heard many teachers try to simplify Mula Bandha but telling students to squeeze their anus or (for women) vaginal muscles.  I think Richard Freeman’s description shows how our locks can really be used to direct the flow of prana and energy.