Preparatory Poses:

Adho Mukha Svanasana
Baddha Konasana
Dandasana
Paschimottanasana
Sarvangasana
Sirsasana
Supta Virasana
Viparita Karani
Virasana

Benefits:

Strengthens the abdominal muscles and diaphragm
Massages abdominal viscera, the solar plexus, and the heart and lungs
Increases gastric fire; improves digestion, assimilation, and elimination; and purifies the digestive tract of toxins
Stimulates blood circulation in the abdomen and blood flow to the brain
Stimulates and lifts the energy of the lower belly (apana vayu), to unite it with the energies localized in the navel (samana vayu) and heart (prana vayu)

Variations:

The hollow belly of Uddiyana Bandha can be approximated in a reclining position. Technically this position is called Tadagi Mudra, the Tank Seal (tadagi = tank), because the hollow belly is reminiscent of a water tank. Lie on your back and stretch your arms overhead, laying the backs of the hands on the floor. Extend through your heels in the opposite direction. The opposing stretch of the arms and legs sucks the belly into the torso, shaping it like a water tank or pool. Don't, however, hold the breath; breathe normally, allowing the upper belly to expand fully on the inhalation, while keeping the lower belly hollow. Gheranda says that this seal "destroys decay and death."

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