As we explore our pranayama practices, we can learn various techniques and preparatory exercises to bring us to places of more significant connection. Jivha Bandha is the counteraction to Simha Mudra (Lion's breath) when we stretch the tongue down. We are doing yoga with our tongue.
Jivha Bandha is effective at reducing tension and gripping around the mouth, jaw, and neck. It helps to calm the nervous system and develop more inner awareness. Another benefit is that Jivha Bandha reduces the production of saliva, thus allowing you to maintain higher levels of stillness and reduces the distraction of needing to swallow.
Jivha means “soul” and bandha means “internal lock“.