| This difficult balancing posture develops poise and | | | | and easing strain caused by poor posture or long |
| gracefulness. It should be performed as if dancing, yet | | | | periods of sitting. |
| firmly with focused attention. It is usually performed as | | | | Note: As a beginner, be sure to keep the ankle of the |
| the final posture of a series of challenging backbends. | | | | raised foot flexed (draw the top of the foot toward |
| The Natarajasana balances the nervous system and | | | | the shin) when lifting the leg to prevent the cramps in |
| develops mental concentration. It generates vitality and | | | | the back of the thigh. |
| enhances the digestive power. | | | | Three important reasons not to do the Lord of the |
| The Lord of Dance posture tones and strengthens the | | | | Dance posture: |
| leg and hip muscles. It stretches the shoulders and | | | | 1) If you have serious lower back injury, avoid |
| expands the chest. | | | | practicing this posture. |
| When done in a full version, this is a very demanding | | | | 2) In case of knee injury do not attempt this posture. |
| asana, requiring great flexibility in the shoulders and | | | | 3) If you have High Blood Pressure do not do this |
| spine, tremendous openness in the chest, groins and | | | | posture. |
| front of the thighs, and great strength in the standing | | | | Caution: Always check with your doctor if you have |
| leg. | | | | any doubts or concerns regarding the suitability of this |
| The Natarajasana has curative and corrective effects | | | | posture for you. It is best to perform this yoga posture |
| removing backache and stiffness of the spine. The | | | | in presence of a qualified yoga teacher. |
| arch formed by the back and stretched leg gently | | | | Issued in the interest of people practicing Hatha Yoga |
| aligns the vertebrae of the spine restoring suppleness | | | | by Subodh Gupta, Yoga Expert based in London. |