Dancer Pose (Natarajasana), is a challenging hip and heart-opening practice. This pose is performed by balancing on one leg. The other leg is bent behind, pulled up, and pushed away from the body while grabbing the foot with the same side of the hand. That hand is extended straight behind, strengthening the neck, shoulder, and biceps and triceps. The frontal body is nicely opened and stretched. The lower back is contracted, and the spine's vertebrae open up. This alignment creates a lengthening and arching effect. The abdominal area is stretched, stimulating the Jatharagni (digestive fire). On the mental level, such backbends are often associated with an energizing and uplifting feeling, hence improving mood and increasing vitality as soon as the pose is released. The name Natarajasana is derived from Sanskrit, wherein "Nata" means dancer, "Raja" means lord or king, and "Asana" means posture. Hence, it is also known as King Dancer Pose. Dancer Pose is also attributed to Lord Shiva and is called the Lord of Dance. This vigorous and beautiful pose is dedicated to Lord Shiva, the fountain and source of Yoga. Considered an intermediate-level pose in nature, a good warm-up is a must to develop the required strength-balance-and-flexibility. Practices like Flamingo Pose, Cat Pose, Tree Pose, Warrior Pose Iii, Supta Virasana, Dhanurasana, or Ustrasana can be considered to develop strength in the legs, flexibility in the hamstring and quadriceps, and range of motion of the shoulder and spinal mobility while improving balance and stability. In addition to that, Plank Pose and Boat Pose can be considered to develop core strength for this challenging practice. Included in flow yoga sequences, Natarajasana can be a wonderful peak pose to develop strength and balance in the body for the advance Ashtanga Yoga pose, Baddha Natarajasana. On the other hand, it provides a sense of achievement and builds confidence by establishing a deeper mind-body connection. It promotes grounding and stability. This standing-balancing practice spiritually helps activate the Ajna Chakra. Included in yoga for teens, Dancer Pose helps develop their interest in yoga through such creative-challenging poses. Dancer Pose is considered a base pose as dancer pose variations can be derived from this pose. Dancer Pose helps boost energy in the body and hence can be included in flow yoga sequences.

Online Yoga cursus voor beginners. Wil je zelf thuis yoga leren en aan de slag met online yogalessen? Doe dan mee met onze online Yoga beginnerscursus!