Whether it be Break-dance, Ballet, Burlesque, Belly Dance, Tribal, or Hawaiian, every dancer relies on flexibility, confidence, and balancing or centering of the body.
Yoga is beneficial to all dancers for these reasons and many others such as strength, posture improvement, improved circulation, and purifying the body from toxins.
Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga or Power Yoga as it is referred to in the West is a form of Hatha Yoga. It focuses on linking the postures with the breathing exercises into a flowing Yoga practice. Because of these unique capabilities of Ashtanga Yoga, it warms up the body before deep stretching to stretch more safely. Also stamina is created which is beneficial to the dancer's body for overall performance endurance.
In Ashtanga Yoga, the first half of the practice is a warm up (Sun Salutations) and standing asanas. The second half of the practice is a seated asana series and finishing sequence. The Sun Salutations are dynamic, getting the blood flowing, the heart rate up and using breath work to bring fresh oxygen to the blood improving circulation.
The standing asanas are very beneficial for the dancer's body. They stress on balance, focus, strength, confidence, and equalizing/balancing both sides of the body. The seated asana sequence comprises many stretches for the hamstrings, hip openers, and core strengtheners. These postures are very therapeutic for the dancer working out any remaining stress, tension, and toxins from the body.
One of the most precious gifts Yoga offers is the mind/body experience. It brings clarity and peace to the mind. At many dance classes, Yoga and Dance come together complementing each other bringing Eastern spirituality and movement to the west.
Benefits of Yoga for Dancers:
* Balance
* Clarity of the Mind
* Confidence
* Flexibility
* Improved Circulation
* Improved Hip Mobility/Flexibility
* Improved Lung Capacity
* Posture Improvement
* Purification of the Body
* Stamina
* Strength/Muscle Toning
* Stress Relief
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