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Today's Daily Tip

Find Balance in Opposition

When we think of yoga in the West, we are generally referring to hatha yoga, which is only one branch in ... (continued)

The Secret to Better Arm Balances?

Think relaxation, not strength.

By Jason Crandell

But if you struggle with arm balances, shift your energies away from bulking up those biceps. Try this friendlier, and perhaps counterintuitive, approach that emphasizes opening and relaxing. You'll use two key preparatory poses to open your joints and get your body deeply familiar with the shape of each of three main arm balances: Bakasana, Parsva Bakasana (Side Crane Pose), and Bhujapidasana (Shoulder-Pressing Pose).

Perhaps the most important thing is to cultivate a playful, curious, and nonstriving attitude. The feeling of weightlessness and confidence that you can find in these postures (not to mention their striking beauty) tends to bring up a sense of attachment. Notice if you become overly intense in your desire to perform the poses or, conversely, if you're tempted to throw in the towel because they seem too challenging.

If that happens, let go and search for the delicate balance between effort and relaxation. Use the exploration of these postures as a way to practice meeting any challenge with understanding, acceptance, and resilience.

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Reader Comments

Linda Neiman	Excellent Article on all levels
Reena	I have been practicing and teaching yoga forever! My attempts at arm balances were boosted when I began using the bandhas. I really did at least one of the three bandhss for fun each time I practiced. They eventually became "assistants" to any inversion pose! Thanks so much for all your written support!
pyro	"maala" is the word for garland and completely different from "mala". Malasana means the pose which eases the passage of stools. Indian toilets have to be used sitting in malasana; without the forward bend :)