by Tracey Rich

The Tip Toe Balance

Balance is an essential part of life (and a yoga practice) both in the actual and the metaphoric sense. It is associated with poise and grace. The following poses not only teach balance (and the one-pointed concentration necessary to achieve it) but will challenge it as well. These poses will likewise develop the arches, tone claves, hips, buttocks, the waist, and even your arms and will lead to beautiful, elegant posture - another treasured attribute.

• Standing tall, centered and erect raise onto the balls of your feet, keeping your gaze focused forward and bring your hands together, palms touching (prayer position) at your chest. Take 3 to 5 slow inhalations and exhalations. Then lower.
• This second time raise up with hands on hips, twisting first to your right for 3 to 5 breaths and then to your left. Return to center, then lower. Remember to lead from your hips and not with your shoulders.
• Repeat the third time with arms shoulder height, now as you twist to your left bring your right arm forward (left moves back), head and gaze following your twist to the left. Repeat the twist on the opposite side, each time taking 3 to 5 breaths.
• Repeat this sequence 3 to 5 rounds increasing the breathing if you choose.