Twisted Side Angle Bend Pose-Parivritta Parsvakonasana 

Twisted Side Angle Bend Pose

  • Parivritta Parsvakonasana
Dr.Rithika Patteti Standing Yoga Pose

Parivritta Parsvakonasana (Twisted Side Angle Bend Pose) is a variation of Parsvakonasana(Side Angle Bend Pose). This asana is a little challenging and requires better control on legs, hips, and hamstrings. Entire body is strengthened and stretched by adding the twist in the side angle pose. It also opens the chest and shoulders, giving relief, if your upper body is stiff. In Sanskrit, 'Parivritta' means twisted, 'Parsva' means side, 'kona' means angle and 'asana' meaning pose. Parivritta Parsvakonasana works on the Anahata Chakra, Manipura, Swadhistana Chakra and Mooladhara Chakra. 

Steps to do Twisted Side Angle Bend Pose / Parivritta Parsvakonasana 

  • Stand in Tadasana.
  • Right foot far back. Inhale, stretch the hands, torso in line with legs.
  • Make sure your left foot is at 90 degrees angle and right foot 45 degrees.
  • Exhale, twist the trunk towards left, take the right palm on or beside the left foot.
  • Left hand pointed up, look at the left palm.
  • Try keeping both your shoulders in a line.
  • Keep breathing while in the posture.
  • Inhale, raise up, exhale and stand in Tadasana.
  • Repeat on the other side.

Tips for beginners

  • Pay attention to your back foot, so that it can save you from any injury.
  • Work on your hamstrings before you attempt the pose. 
  • You can use props to support your asana.
  • Support your heel by placing it on a block, or a wall to help you maintain your balance.

Benefits

  • Strengthens and stretches the legs, knees and ankles.
  • Stretches the groin, spine, chest and shoulders.
  • Stimulates abdominal organs.
  • Improves digestion.
  • Improves balance, helps in treating infertility, lower back ache, osteoporosis and sciatica.

Watch out for

  • Don't twist the neck in case of neck pain.
  • Avoid it, if you have headache, migraine or insomnia.
  • In case of knee injury avoid this asana.

Variations