Bandhas in yoga are the intelligent cooperation of muscles that create energetic valves that, when utilized properly, are believed to keep your prana (energy or life force) inside your body. The ancient yogis recognized that there were subtle energy channels in the body, and that at certain points the energy tends to leak outward. Unnecessary movement of your energy makes you inefficient. So Bandhas are essentially your ability to lock and direct your energy where you want it. Being conscious of these Bandhas throughout yoga class can help you deepen your practice, contain your energy, and provide new found benefits.