Dancers can perfect mandiadavus and better many traditional postures by practising Veerabhadrasana.
In the earlier article, we have described the benefits of the first variant of Veerabhadrasana or warrior pose. This pose is named after Veerabhadra, a fierce warrior, an incarnation of Lord Shiva. It is one of the most graceful yoga postures and the regular practice adds beauty and grace.
Veerabhadrasana 2:
The objective of this asana is the same as that of the Veerabhadrasana one, strengthening the arms, shoulders and thighs.
To perform the asana, first, stand in Thadasana and take a few breaths. While inhaling, raise both hands to the sides bringing into a plane parallel to the ground. Simultaneously move the feet keeping them around three feet apart. While inhaling, turn the trunk to the right simultaneously flexing the knee, bringing the leg perpendicular to the ground, keeping the other leg straight.
Take five deep breaths. While inhaling, turn the trunk to face the front, still keeping the hand raised parallel to the ground. Bring down the hands and join the feet while exhaling – resuming the Thadasana.
Repeat on the other side. This asana facilitates the execution of mandiadavus and vinyasas.
Veerabhadrasana – 3
As this is a balancing asana, a proficiency in this helps the performer to maintain stability in any posture, however difficult it is. Moreover, it has special importance and significance in abhinaya.
To perform this asana, stand in Thadasana, pacing the hands on the flanks. After a few relaxing breaths, place the feet around three feet apart. While exhaling, turn the trunk to the right side (spinal twist to the right). Inhale in this position. During the next exhalation, bend forward and place hands on either side of the right foot. Take a few deep breaths.
In the next step, during exhalation, raise the left lower leg without flexing it at the knee, as high as possible to bring it into one plane with the trunk. After reaching this position, inhale once. Once again with the next exhalation, raise both hands and join the palms, and simultaneously raise the trunk. Now the movements or adjustments are made in such a way that the hands, the body (trunk) and the left lower limb are on the same plane. Now the performer is balancing on the right leg that is quite straight.
Take five breaths in this posture. While inhaling, lower the limb simultaneously raising the trunk and the hands to come to the standing position with both upper and limbs above the head.
Exhale and bring down both upper limbs to resume Thadasana. Repeat on the left side. This asana finds application in many traditional postures. It imparts a look of grandeur to Matsyavathara , one of the ten incarnations of Vishnu. In portraying the peacock, it can be advantageously employed.
