Natarajasana, translated to dancer or lord of the dance pose, is a beautiful and challenging pose. Usually incorporated towards the end of a yoga flow, this pose is a great way to stretch out the body, focus the mind, and really challenge your sense of balance. It is a fun pose to play with, attempting to bring the back leg higher or reach the front arm further. Dancer pose is also a great pose for kids. It gives them a fun, challenging pose to try out.

Steps to get into pose:

• Start in tadasana (mountain pose)
• Shift weight to right leg/foot
• Bend left after at the elbow bringing it out to the left side
• Slowly bend left leg at the knee, bringing left foot into the left hand
• Lift right arm straight up towards the sky
• Holding the inside of the left foot, slowly kick the leg out behind out
• While kicking the left leg out, slowly hinge at the hips reaching right arm ahead of you
• Repeat steps for opposite leg

 

Benefits:

• Stretches the shoulders and chest
• Stretches the thighs, groins, and abdomen
• Strengthens the legs and ankles
• Improves balance