Yoga Anatomy

From underneath, the two triangles of the feet can be joined to show the size and shape
of the base of support for tadasana. The plumb line that passes through the body’s center
of gravity in this position should also fall through the exact center of this base.
The many layers of musculature (see the top figure on page 75) all combine to create
lift, balance, and movement of the 28 bones (26 major bones and 2 sesamoid bones) of the
foot, which has evolved to be an incredibly adaptable structure able to move you smoothly
over uneven terrain.
The foot has evolved over millions of years in a world with no roads or sidewalks. When
the adaptability of the foot is no longer needed during locomotion, the deeper muscles
that support the arches can weaken, eventually leaving only the superficial, nonmuscular
plantar fascia responsible for preventing the collapse of the foot. The stress this places on
the plantar fascia frequently leads to plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.
The practice of standing postures in general, and tadasana in particular, is one of the
best ways to restore the natural vitality, strength, and adaptability of the feet. Once your
foundation is improved, it is much easier to put the rest of your house in order.

E5267/Kaminoff/fig6.3a/417619/alw/pulled-r1

E5267/Kaminoff/fig6.3b/417620/alw/pulled-r1

Triangles represent three points of support

of each foot.

Three of the arches of the foot.

The plantar fascia, the most superficial layer of support for the foot. The more the arch E5267/Kaminoff/fig6.4/417621/alw/pulled-r1

support muscles weaken, the more pressure is put on the plantar fascia, which can result

in plantar fasciitis and heel spurs.

Tadasana (continued)