YOGA AND BHARATANATYAM

The common factor in the practice of yoga and Bharatanatyam, is the fact that both need to concentrate on the chakras of the body. The chakras lie on the central line of the body that demarcates the left and the right parts of the body (bilateral symmetry). The araimandi stance helps to get a hold of the vertical line on which the chakras lie. The araimandi as the yantra or medium for perceiving pure consciousness is explained in detail by Mohiniattam Guru Mandakini Trivedi in her book “The Yoga of Indian Dance”.

Yoga states that the fingers of our hand represent the ‘Pancha Mahabhutas’ or the 5 elements. Touching one finger with others in different combinations creates circuits in our body through which energy flows. Such a flow of energy allows the body to gain better circulation of blood, indirectly formulating long-term health benefits. The ‘Mayura Hasta’ is similar to the ‘Prithvi Mudra’ in yoga improves the complexion of skin and helps to increase weight. The ‘Trishula Hasta’ matches with ‘Varun Mudra’ is claimed to balance the water content in body and prevent pain due to inflammation or shrinkage of muscles. The ‘Simhamukha Hasta’ is similar to the ‘Apana Mudra’ which regulates diabetes and helps to cure constipation and piles. The ‘Hamsasya hasta’ is similar to ‘Gyan mudra’ increases the memory power, enhances concentration and prevents insomnia.