https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GX9DTB4Sm-g
Today I wanted to share some useful tip and techniques to help you master your balance poses in yoga.
I will also follow this video with another video taking you through a balance sequence so that you can implement these tips into your physical practice.
Tip number 1….When you come into a balance ensure that the part of your body that is touching the ground remains steady and connected to the earth below you. For example if you are standing on one foot keep the foot grounded especially the big toe. If the foot is fidgeting or there is movement into the foot then you will fall out of your balance. As you find a sense of stillness into the foot your will naturally find your centre of gravity which will also help you to hold the pose.
Tip number 2…. Keep your eyes steady and focused on a point in front of you. This is often referred to as your drishti in yoga. If your eyes are darting around all over the place then your taking on lots of information around you which creates movement and inevitably you will fall out of your balance.
Tip number 3… Whilst balancing it is important to keep calm and quiet within the mind. If you are thinking of other things whilst balancing this will create mental noise and movement in the mind which will then be reflected in the body. Instead concentrate on developing stillness in the mind which can be encouraged by working with an affirmation. A useful one to use whilst balancing is; ‘I am calm and balanced.’ Mentally repeat this in your mind as this will set the right intention and energy for you to hold your balance.
Tip number 4… Develop a strong core. Your core muscles are the centre of your being and help to hold you up. Therefore a strong core will give you the support as you hold your balance. Check out my 10 minute yoga ab workout to develop a strong core https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RYx0x86CrlU
Tip number 5… Be Confident. Even if you are a complete beginner set the intention that you can balance. Displaying confidence will give you mental strength to support you in your balance. Let go of any doubts you have within your mind of not being able to balance and instead reassure yourself that you can do this!
Tip number 6… Release your Fears. Balancing can be a scary prospect. You may think that you may fall and hurt or embarrass yourself. In order to overcome the fears keep practicing! If you fall down pick yourself up and do it again. With determination and time you will certainly overcome your fears! If you do feel fearful or unsteady then position yourself around some support. For example if you are standing on one foot stand near a wall and lightly touch the wall for support. Don’t take your full weight onto the wall but lightly touching the wall will give your mind the reassurance it needs to feel safe.
Tip number 7… Meditate! Balancing is very similar to the practice of meditation because it requires a certain level of concentration and focus. A regular meditation practice will strengthen your mind to become calm and steady which will give you the foundation of strength required to hold a balance pose. For those of you who are more advanced in your practice you can take your meditation into your balance by holding your awareness at the third eye. Your third eye is the centre of inner peace. Therefore once you complete your balance sit quietly in meditation for a moment to retain that sense of balance and equanimity that you have created.
I hope these tips are useful and be sure to check out my next video where we can put these tips into practice!
Do you have any other useful tips and suggestions for holding a balance which you can share with the community? If so I would love to hear from you so please let us know in the comments below.
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Until next time…
Namaste.
