NATRAJ ASANA

Natraj, the cosmic dancer symbolizes the constant flow of energy and nectar. The Natraj Asana is therefore excellent pose to get that flow of energy and nectar. It also helps in stretching the upper body and developing balance.

TECHNIQUE

Stand with straight leg and fold the right leg back.

Breathe in and take the right hand back to grip the folded leg firmly, breathe out.

Natraj Asana

Inhale and stretch the left arm up along side the ear.

Keep the eyes focused, to maintain the balance without releasing the hold on the ankle; slowly begin to shift the line of the body, breathing normally.

Stretch the right heel away from the buttock. Keep the weight on the left foot without losing balance.

Slowly, bend forward till the chest, arm become parallel to floor and knee, thigh, hip, spine  and arm come in a straight line.

Relieve the pose in the reverse order and repeat on the other side also.

Try to bring the knee, hip, shoulder and arm at same line as you bend.

Do not look here and there - fix a point and keep your focus constantly on it to maintain balance.

Do not tense the toes, ankles and shoulders as you balance.

Duration is from 10 to 30 seconds each side

Avoid in joint pains and osteoporosis.

In a variation of this Asana touch the folded legs toe to the head by dropping the head back and lifting the leg higher.

BENEFITS

It imparts balance, stability and calm state of mind to the body.

it brings flexibility to the spine.

it allows the nerve current to flow freely in the body to balance Chakras and energizing the body at cellular level.

It tones up the lower limbs including ankles, calves, thighs and hips.

It encourages lymphatic drainage increasing the immunity and resistance.

It increase concentration and focusing ability.

It makes the mind one pointed and prepares it for meditation.

It strengthens the lower limbs as it bears the weight of the body one by one.

It expands the chest cavity and relieves bronchial spasms.

The symbol Natraj is the symbol of cosmic dancer hence going in this pose charges the body and and mind with dynamism and positivity.

It activates the rudra granthi and the ajna chakra by channelising the flow of prana to them.

It helps in balancing, stability of mind, increasing concentration, memory, reducing depression and lethargy, arthritis, muscular weakness, poor flexibility, hyperactivity.