A regular yoga practice offers abundant physical, emotional and spiritual benefits. Each type of pose offers a variety of benefits and a well rounded practice should include many types of poses. Standing poses are used in all levels and types of yoga classes and help to strengthen the body and mind.
Standing poses work to increase strength and the names of many of the standing asanas project strength. Consider mountain pose, tree pose and the warrior series and you’ll see what I mean. Performing these asanas correctly for any length of time also requires strength, particularly in classes that require you to hold the pose for a few minutes.
Balance is important for performing the standing asanas correctly. For example, in the Warrior series, triangle pose and other standing poses, the weight is evenly distributed between the front and back legs. This balance work will improve your balance and flexibility.
Your posture will also benefit from standing poses in yoga. When you focus on achieving the correct alignment in each of the standing poses, you will find your posture and the natural alignment of your body is improved. These improvements will result in better posture all day long, not just in class.
Stillness characterizes the standing poses in yoga. Although they are sometimes used as part of a flowing sequence, when you are in the asana, your body should remain still. The idea of stillness in the standing yoga asanas refers to stillness in the mind, as well as stillness throughout the body.
When the body and mind are still, focus and concentration are naturally increased. As you are concentrating on your Dristi, or focal point, your mind becomes relaxed, yet more focused at the same time. This focus that is enhanced in the standing poses will follow you off the mat and into your daily life with regular practice.