Extended Side Angle Pose

‘Utthita’ means extended,’ Parshava’ means side and ‘kona’ means angle. By correctly stretching, bending and turning in Uttitha Parshavakonasana you form several geometrical shapes, squares, triangles and right angles.

Organizing the Pose:-

• Stand in Tadasana
• Jump or step the legs 3-4 feet apart and arms lifted sideways, palms facing down and toes pointing forward.
• Turn the right foot out 90 degrees and the left foot in slightly. Bend the right knee to a right angle, keeping the left leg straight and stretched out.
• Place the right palm on the floor, behind your knee, stretching your left arm over the ear, the palm facing down for the final posture.
• Come up to position 2 and repeat on the left side.
• Come up returning to Position 2 and jump back to Tadasana.

DO’S:

• Turn your waist and broaden your chest.
• Keep your elbows straight and keep your head, shoulders, trunk and hips in line.

DONT’S:

• Project your buttocks backwards or bring your bent knee forward.
• Let the shoulders roll forward.

BENEFITS:

• Strengthens leg muscles and joints
• Tones the waist and hips
• Builds up stamina

Remember to spread your legs just the right distance to achieve the right angle of the knee.

Namaste!

Neelanjana Bharadwaj- Yoga Expert