Parsvakonasana or Side Angle Pose
The Side Angle Pose (Parsvakonasana) is a standing pose in yoga, and has many health benefits. Because of the nature of its movements, it is usually called the Utthita Parsvakonasana or Extended Side Angle Pose.
The Parivrtta Parsvakonasana or the Revolved Side Angle Pose is an extension of this pose. It is an intense twist and more difficult to perform.
Step by Step: If you are a beginner, then the best way to describe the complexity of this pose is to compare it to an alternate toe-touching exercise. Although it resembles an alternate toe-touching exercise it is not as simple.
Usually this Side Angle Yoga pose is achieved after doing the Downward Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukho Svanasana).
Benefits: All Yoga postures help in increasing flexibility, stamina and strength and this posture is no different.
Tips for beginners: In case your right hand is unable to comfortably reach the floor, place a block under the hand. This will also help to open the chest.
Anatomical focus: This pose focuses and makes use of the muscles of the ankles, legs, spine, abdomen, chest, lungs and shoulders.
Therapeutic applications: This posture is recommended for those who are suffering from constipation and menstrual discomfort. It also provides relief for sciatica and low backache. It can help prevent osteoporosis by stretching and strengthening the muscles and bones. Because it opens up and strengthens the muscles of the groin area, it has been found to help in curing infertility.
Contraindications: Always consult a medical specialist before starting a yoga regime. This pose is contraindicated if you suffer from low or high blood pressure or frequent headaches. In case you suffer from a neck problem, you might have difficulty in turning your head to look up at the arm. In that case, look straight ahead, or down at the floor.
The Parivrtta Parsvakonasana or the Revolved Side Angle Pose is an extension of this pose. It is an intense twist and more difficult to perform.
Step by Step: If you are a beginner, then the best way to describe the complexity of this pose is to compare it to an alternate toe-touching exercise. Although it resembles an alternate toe-touching exercise it is not as simple.
Usually this Side Angle Yoga pose is achieved after doing the Downward Facing Dog Pose (Adho Mukho Svanasana).
- After you have completed the Downward Facing Dog Pose, execute a light jump, stretching your feet apart. Now turn your right foot forward.
- Bend your right leg at the knee in such a manner that the thigh and calf are at right angle to each other, keeping the thigh parallel to the floor.
- Press the left heel firmly to the floor.
- Now stretch out your arms and bring your right hand to touch your right foot. If that is difficult, you can leave your hand outside or inside the right foot, as far as it is possible to extend it.
- Point the left arm upwards towards the ceiling. This will open the chest, and stack the left shoulder, keeping it in position on top of the right shoulder.
- It is easier to keep your balance if you keep your gaze fixed on your left hand.
- Hold this pose for about 10 to 30 seconds, straighten up and then repeat with the other leg.
- Gradually increase the number of repetitions.
Benefits: All Yoga postures help in increasing flexibility, stamina and strength and this posture is no different.
- It opens the shoulders and chest.
- It stretches and hence strengthens the hamstrings as well as the muscles of the legs, knees and ankles.
- It stimulates the abdominal organs and muscles.
- It also increases stamina and flexibility.
Tips for beginners: In case your right hand is unable to comfortably reach the floor, place a block under the hand. This will also help to open the chest.
Anatomical focus: This pose focuses and makes use of the muscles of the ankles, legs, spine, abdomen, chest, lungs and shoulders.
Therapeutic applications: This posture is recommended for those who are suffering from constipation and menstrual discomfort. It also provides relief for sciatica and low backache. It can help prevent osteoporosis by stretching and strengthening the muscles and bones. Because it opens up and strengthens the muscles of the groin area, it has been found to help in curing infertility.
Contraindications: Always consult a medical specialist before starting a yoga regime. This pose is contraindicated if you suffer from low or high blood pressure or frequent headaches. In case you suffer from a neck problem, you might have difficulty in turning your head to look up at the arm. In that case, look straight ahead, or down at the floor.