Tadasana, or Mountain Pose, is the foundational standing posture in yoga. It represents stability, groundedness, and alignment, serving as the starting point for many other standing poses.
Description & Steps:
- Stand with feet hip-width apart or together, grounding all four corners of each foot
- Engage the thighs slightly and lift the kneecaps
- Draw the tailbone gently down and lengthen the spine
- Relax the shoulders, letting arms hang naturally by the sides, palms facing inward or forward
- Keep the gaze forward, chin slightly tucked, breathing naturally
Benefits:
- Improves posture and spinal alignment
- Strengthens legs, core, and ankles
- Enhances body awareness and balance
Contraindications:
- Severe dizziness or vertigo (stand near a wall for support)
- Recent leg, ankle, or foot injury
- Low blood pressure that causes lightheadedness when standing long
