Balancing Asanas develop the cerebellum,
the brain center that controls how the body works in motion. Most
people are uncoordinated in their movements so their bodies constantly
have to compensate for their lack of balance in order to avoid falling
or knocking things over. This inefficient method of proceeding expends
maximum effort and energy for the minimum results, creating
considerable additional strain on the body. These Asanas induce
physical balance, stilling unconscious movement. As the moving body
attains balance it becomes increasingly free to rely on other forces,
such as gravity, to support and propel it. This way it conserves its
own energy and achieves grace and fluidity of motion.
As well as inducing physical balance, this
group of practices develops a balanced mind and a more mature outlook
on life. The focus required to perform them with steadiness develops
concentration and balance at the emotional, mental and psychic levels.
These Asanas are especially noted for balancing the nervous system and
removing stress and anxiety. For relief of excessive tension these
practices should be held for as long as possible.
Balancing Asanas may be difficult to
perform at first if one's sense of balance has not been developed in
normal life. However, the body is very adaptable and progress will
quickly be made with a few weeks of regular practice. When practicing
these Asanas it is most important to steady the mind through
concentration on one point. Gazing at a black spot or a mark on the
wall while balancing allows the body to maintain seemingly difficult
positions for long periods of time.