Balancing Stick (Tuladandasana)
Pose Overview
| Common Name | Balancing Stick |
| Traditional Sanskrit Name | Tuladandasana |
| Sanskrit Name Pronunciation | too-lah-dahn-DAHS-ah-nuh |
| Pose Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Drishti
Drishti is the gaze or visual focus point during yoga poses.
Learn more about Drishti |
Straight ahead or the nose |
Balancing Stick Pose, or Tuladandasana in Sanskrit, is a yoga pose that is said to be beneficial for strengthening the shoulders, arms, and core, as well as for promoting a sense of balance and focus. The name of the pose comes from the fact that it involves balancing on the hands and lifting the body up, with the legs extended and the arms extended. The pose is said to be helpful for increasing flexibility and strength in the shoulders, arms, and core, and for promoting a sense of balance and focus. It is also said to be beneficial for relieving stress and anxiety.
Benefits of Balancing Stick
Improves balance and focus Strengthens the core, legs, and arms Increases overall body tone Improves posture and alignment
How to Enter Balancing Stick
Begin in a standing position with feet hip-distance apart Shift weight onto the left foot and lift the right foot off the ground Extend the right leg behind the body, parallel to the ground Keep the right knee straight and engage the core muscles Bring the arms out in front of the body, parallel to the ground Hold for several breaths before switching sides
How to Exit Balancing Stick
Slowly release the pose, lowering the lifted leg and bringing the arms back to the sides of the body Stand in Tadasana for a moment before moving on to the next pose
Common Balancing Stick Modifications & Variations
Beginners can practice the pose with the lifted leg bent and resting on a block or chair Advanced practitioners can bring the lifted leg closer to the body or lift the arms overhead
Common Mistakes with Balancing Stick
Arching the back Allowing the lifted leg to drop or sag Not engaging the core muscles
Safety Guidance
Keep the lifted leg straight and engage the core to protect the lower back Keep the gaze forward to maintain balance Be mindful of any knee or ankle injuries before practicing this pose
