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Journalism of Courage
“Balance is a muscle, train it,” says Shilpa Shetty as she sits on her heels and props herself up with her hands folded in a namaste. The fitness enthusiast took to Instagram to share the benefits of incorporating balancing yoga poses in one’s fitness routine, stressing that they help strengthen the feet, ankles, calves, knees, and thighs by engaging stabilising muscles during balance and increasing mobility. “These poses also improve concentration and sense of balance through focused awareness while holding the posture. As a bonus tip, they stimulate the Muladhara (root) chakra, grounding and stabilising the mind,” the Sukhee actor noted.
“Challenge thrown to you, how long can you stay steady?💪🏼,” she captioned her Instagram post.
According to yoga expert Yash Fadvanis, balancing poses in yoga are a powerful way to build harmony between the body and mind.
“In our busy lives, where we are constantly pulled in many directions, learning to balance physically helps us develop emotional and mental balance as well. These poses train the mind to stay calm amidst instability, improve coordination, and enhance body awareness,” he shared. Physically, they strengthen the smaller stabilising muscles that are often overlooked in regular workouts, helping improve posture, stability, and overall strength.
Dr Hansaji Yogendra, Director, The Yoga Institute, added that balancing poses help cultivate self-awareness, teaching resilience and adaptability. “As the body steadies, the mind follows suit, calming inner turmoil and enhancing focus. Throughout this process, you bridge the gap between outer chaos and inner serenity,” he said, adding that finding balance in yoga fosters holistic well-being, enabling you to navigate life and build a deeper connection to your authentic self.
Fadnavis elaborated that the yoga pose demonstrated by Shilpa Shetty reflects balance. It is known as Tolasana (Lifted Lotus Pose), depending on the leg position.
“In her variation, she performs a lifted crossed-leg squat, blending the principles of Padmasana (Lotus Pose) and Utkatasana (Chair Pose). Instead of lifting herself with her hands, as in the traditional form, she balances gracefully on the balls of her feet, emphasising control, stability, and core strength,” he explained. According to him, this challenging variation requires intense focus, muscular engagement, and a deep connection between breath and movement.
Fadnavis listed out the following benefits associated with this pose:
1. Improves balance and stability: Strengthens the smaller stabilizing muscles in the feet, ankles, and legs, essential for coordination and equilibrium.
2. Core strengthening: Activates the deep abdominal muscles and pelvic floor to maintain lift and alignment.
3. Enhances focus and concentration: Encourages mindfulness, helping calm the mind and sharpen attention.
4. Strengthens legs and glutes: Builds endurance and strength in the quadriceps, calves, and gluteal muscles.
5. Promotes postural awareness: Encourages a straight spine, improving alignment and reducing strain on the back.
6. Tones arms and shoulders (in traditional Tolasana): When practiced with hand support, it strengthens and tones the upper body.
According to the expert, here are some other poses that can help your body find balance:
Talasana (Palm-Tree Pose) grounds and centers, fostering mindfulness.
Balasana (Child’s Pose) encourages surrender, aiding mental relaxation.
Virabhadrasana (Warrior Pose) teaches steadiness amid challenges.
Savasana (Corpse Pose) cultivates deep relaxation, facilitating soulful connection.
Sthitaprarthanasana involves shedding thoughts, worries, and tasks, channelling full awareness within the present moment and body.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
