I often include a balance or two in my yoga classes as they are a great way to find the connection between mind and body. It's very difficult to balance if your mind is distracted or agitated. And even on a good day falling out of Tree or Eagle pose will immediately let you know your focus has slipped. Each balance has its own challenges but here's some tips on balancing in general.
- Accept that some days your balance is better than others and don't be too hard on yourself. Nobody has prefect balance every day. Keep smiling!
- Expect one side of your body to be different to the other when it comes to balancing. You may need to place your foot differently each side. For example, your right foot may rest easily against your left thigh in tree, but when you change sides your left foot feels better lower down against the right calf.
- Use a Dristi point to keep you focussed. Gazing at a spot on the floor a little way in front of you is much better than looking at someone else – especially if they're wobbling too!
- Breathe lightly, don't hold your breath.
- If you need to adjust your posture in the balance, it may be better to come out of it and start again. It's easier to go into a pose with good alignment than to adjust while you are balancing.
- For standing balances take the time to start with equal weight on both feet and get your feet grounded before you take all your weight onto one side.
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- Visualisation really helps some people – for example in Tree visualise roots growing down from your feet into the ground, holding you steady.
- Use a chair or a wall to give you confidence. You can work facing the wall to reduce distractions or with your back to the wall. The wall(or chair), even if you don't touch it, gives your brain more information about where you are in space and you can wobbly happily knowing the wall is there if you need it.
And remember, if one group of balances is not for you, for example if you have weak ankles and standing balances are difficult, you can still get all the benefits by using a seated balance or an arm balance instead.