The Importance of Balancing Asanas
Balancing yoga asanas or balancing yoga postures develop the functions of the cerebellum, the brain center that controls how the body works in motion. Most people are uncoordinated in their movements, so their bodies constantly have to compensate for their lack of balance in order to avoid falling or knocking things over. This expends maximum effort and energy for minimum results, creating considerable additional strain. Such people will benefit from daily balancing postures such as Vkrshasana (Tree Pose) or Natarajasana (Lord Shiva/Dancer Pose).
Balancing asanas improve muscle coordination and posture, inducing physical and nervous balance, and stilling unconscious movement. This conserves energy and achieves grace and fluidity of motion. The focus required to perform balancing postures with steadiness develops concentration and balance at the emotional, mental and psychic levels, removing stress and anxiety. These high levels of concentration required in yoga balance postures make them some of the most meditative poses to practice. Our sense of balance is known as “Equilibrioception” and it involves five processes that help to keep our balance.
For relief of excessive tension, these practices should be held for as long as comfortable. To steady the mind, practice concentrating on one gaze point (drishti). This can be the ground, your navel, some point on the wall, or fingertips.
Balancing asanas may be difficult to perform at first. However, the body is very adaptable and progress will quickly be made within a few weeks of regular practice. Carefully, observe the contra-indications and benefits given for each posture.
Recommended Balancing Postures for All Levels:
- Eka Padasana – One Foot Pose
- Vrkshasana – Tree Pose
- Garudhasana – Eagle Pose
- Natavarasana – Lord Krishna’s Pose
- Saral Natarajasana – Lord of the Dance Pose or Dancer Pose
- Ardha Baddha Padmottanasana – Bound Half-Lotus Forward Bend or Half Bound Lotus Standing Forward Bend
