Prime Minister Narendra Modi today tweeted a video of his own animated self performing tadasana to inspire people to take up yoga, weeks before the International Yoga Day that falls on June 21. In a blue t-shirt and black track pants, PM Modi's animated version is seen standing on a rug inside a spacious room with wooden flooring, overlooking a green manicured lawn, as he guides viewers through the stages of performing tadasana or palm tree posture.
PM Modi took to Twitter saying, "Tadasana is very good for the body. It will ensure more strength and better alignment."
To understand the benefits of Tadasana, OnlyMyHealth spoke to Himalayan Siddhaa Akshar, Author, Columnist, Founder of Akshar Yoga Kendraa, Yoga and Spiritual Leader.
Akshar said, “Tadasana is a foundational asana (posture) in the practice of yoga. While it may seem like a simple standing position, Tadasana offers numerous health benefits that contribute to overall well-being.” Here, some advantages of incorporating this pose into your yoga routine.
1. Improved Posture and Spinal Alignment
Tadasana is a powerful posture that helps correct poor posture and spinal misalignments. “By consciously aligning the body from the feet to the crown of the head, this pose encourages proper spinal curvature and engages the core muscles,” Akshar explained. Regular practice of Tadasana can help alleviate back pain, neck tension, and other issues associated with poor posture.
2. Enhanced Balance and Stability
“Maintaining the Tadasana position requires a strong sense of balance and body awareness. As you root your feet firmly into the ground and engage your core muscles, your proprioceptive awareness (the ability to sense the position and movement of your body) improves,” Akshar said. This heightened balance and stability can translate into improved coordination and reduced risk of falls, especially beneficial for older adults or those with balance issues.
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3. Increased Respiratory Capacity
In Tadasana, the chest is open, and the spine is elongated, allowing for optimal breathing. “This posture encourages deep, diaphragmatic breathing, which can enhance lung capacity and oxygen intake,” he said adding, “Improved respiratory function can help alleviate conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory issues.”
4. Boosted Circulation and Metabolism
The subtle micro-movements and muscle engagement required in Tadasana promote better blood circulation throughout the body. “Improved circulation ensures that vital organs and tissues receive adequate oxygen and nutrient supply. Additionally, the slight contraction and release of muscles during the pose can boost metabolism, aiding in weight management and overall metabolic health,” he said.
5. Mental Clarity and Focus
Tadasana is often referred to as a "grounding" pose, as it helps connect the practitioner to the present moment and the earth beneath their feet. According to Akshar, the sense of rootedness and stability can promote mental clarity, concentration, and a sense of calm. The focused breath and body alignment required in Tadasana can also help reduce stress and anxiety, contributing to overall mental well-being.
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6. Strengthened Lower Body
While Tadasana may seem like a simple standing pose, it engages and strengthens the muscles of the lower body, including the quadriceps, hamstrings, and calves. Regular practice can improve lower body strength, stability, and endurance, which can benefit individuals in various physical activities and daily tasks.
7. Increased Body Awareness
“Tadasana encourages practitioners to become more aware of their body's alignment, muscle engagement, and breath. This heightened body awareness can translate into improved proprioception, which can help prevent injuries and enhance overall physical performance in various activities,” Akshar said.
Tadasana is a versatile and accessible pose that can be practiced by individuals of all ages and fitness levels. By incorporating this foundational asana into your yoga practice or daily routine, you can reap the numerous benefits it offers, including improved posture, balance, respiratory function, circulation, mental clarity, and overall well-being. Remember to practice with proper alignment and modifications as needed, and consult with a qualified yoga instructor if you have any specific concerns or limitations.