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Yoga can be a marvelous tool in the dancer's weekly routine, acting as a counterbalance to the rigorous training undertaken by both students and professionals. When designed appropriately, a yoga for dancers program can deliver impressive potential benefits:
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Yoga can help strengthen turnout.
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Yoga can improve stage performance.
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Yoga can help calm stage jitters.
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Yoga can improve balance.
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Yoga can increase flexibility.
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Yoga can help in injury prevention.
Not all forms of yoga are appropriate to the needs of the dancer, and there are multiple different styles of yoga that will prove more suitable for the various modes of dance. For example, ballet dancers looking to reduce the stress on their knees, ankles, and feet will benefit from a different style of yoga than jazz dancers looking to increase their power and endurance. Regardless of the type of yoga selected, all dancers will benefit from the following guidelines when approaching yoga practice:
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Pay attention to your comfort zone; avoid anything that causes pain or discomfort.
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DO NOT COMPARE yourself to anyone else….yoga is a celebration of your own strengths and challenges.
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Avoid holding your breath; instead, use your breath to enhance the quality of a position.
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Never do yoga if you are injured without first checking with your doctor.
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Be patient; yoga does not bring “instant” or “miracle” results.
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Enjoy yoga as a “body vacation” away from dance class, rehearsal, and performances.
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