The word yoga means to join or unite. Connecting with the self or the divine spirit or your soul. There are eight different parts of yoga which include yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. When you practice all of these, it helps you achieve enlightenment. Yoga asanas and pranayama can help cure many health conditions and manage their symptoms.

There are many yoga postures and each one has its own benefits. One of them is Natarajasana. also known as Dancer PoseIt stretches the thighs, shoulders, abdomen and inguinal region which can help strengthen the ankles and legs. The name Natarajasana is derived from the Sanskrit words ‘nat’ which means ‘dance’, ‘raj’ which means ‘king’ and ‘asana’ which means ‘posture’. This pose is believed to be based on the Nataraja avatar of Lord Shiva. When you perform this yoga pose, your body looks similar to the Nataraja avatar of Lord Shiva and hence it is known as Natarajasana. This asana is known to have many health benefits.

But first, let’s see how to do this asana correctly.

• Stand with your feet together and keep your eyes focused at eye level.
• Then, bend your right knee and begin lifting your right heel toward your buttocks.
• Then, hold your right ankle with your right hand and put your body weight on the left leg.
• Extend your left hand toward the sky.
• Then begin to bend your waist and lean forward until your left hand is aligned with your right foot in the air.
• After this, lift your right leg as high as you can and try to remain in this posture for 3 to 5 deep breaths.
• Then, put your right leg and left hand down and relax.

health benefits of natrajasana

improves balance and stability

This pose requires you to balance on one leg, which helps strengthen and stabilize the ankles, legs, and core muscles. This ultimately helps improve overall stability and coordination.

Improves flexibility

This pose helps stretch the chest, shoulders, thighs, and groin, increasing flexibility in these areas. It is also beneficial for the hip flexors and spine.

Strengthens the feet and ankles

By standing on one leg and extending the other forward, this pose helps activate the muscles of the standing leg, building strength in the calves, quadriceps, and ankles.

Opens the chest and shoulders

The bending you do in this pose stretches the chest and shoulders, improving posture and counteracting the effects of sitting or slouching.

Helps in blood circulation

This asana improves blood flow to various parts of the body, including the heart and lungs, which can improve cardiovascular health and boost energy levels.

Reduces stress and anxiety

This pose requires you to focus, which calms the mind and reduces stress. It also helps in reducing symptoms of anxiety.

Improves digestion

Stretches and twists in the torso can help stimulate the abdominal organs, thereby aiding digestion and reducing digestive problems such as constipation and bloating.

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