02/01/2024
Tandavasana –Lord Shiva’s dance
Tandavasana is a balancing pose. A tandava is a divine dance performed by Lord Shiva. Shiva’s tandava is said to be a vigorous dance that is the source of the cycle of creation, preservation and dissolution.
Swami Niranjanananda has written: “Many people may think that Shiva is a religious figure, but he is not. The
word shiva means the auspicious nature or the auspicious consciousness, consciousness
which is conducive to positive, harmonious and balanced growth. The symbolism and icon of the dancing Shiva represent a process of connection between the individual and the cosmos.
How to do it
Stand with the feet slightly apart. Bend and raise L knee so thigh is horizontal and across the body; foot points away from body. Bend R knee slightly. L arm goes across
body parallel with L thigh. Palm and fingers face down. Bend R elbow so R palm faces forwards and forearm vertical with elbow just behind L wrist. Place R hand in jnana mudra and gaze towards the horizon. Breathe normally throughout. Practice up to three times on each side, holding the pose without strain. The awareness should be focused on maintaining balance while focusing on jnana mudra.
Benefits
Tandavasana balances the nervous system and develops control of the body and mental
concentration. Makes the legs supple.
