UTTHITA PARSHVAKONASANA

“Sthirasukhamasanam”

Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras / Pada 2, Sutra 46

– Steady and comfortable should be the posture –

 

 

In Ashtanga Vinyasa Standing Sequenece, this asana comes in after Parivrtta Utthita Trikonasana. This asana opens up the whole area of the extended upper side of the body and gives a wonderful stretch, and at the same time, it strengthens the whole body as well.

 

METHOD

 

1 – Jump the legs open to the right, doing puraka, and stand with the legs widely as much as five feet apart. Stretch out the arms tightly at the level of the shoulder level, and expand the chest.

2 – As you do rechaka, turn the right foot out, bend the knee until 90 degrees in angle, and place the right hand by the side of the right foot. Stretch the left arm straight out over the ear, and gaze at the fingertips. Do puraka and rechaka as much as possible.

3 – Then, doing puraka, return to the position of the 1st vinyasa. Repeat the other side. Then, come back to Samasthihi.

 

BENEFITS

 

• Purifies the ribs and lower abdomen
• Dissolves the bad fat at the waist
• Softens the limbs so that subsequent asanas can be more easily practiced
• Gives a great stretch to the whole side body.

 

CONTRAINDICATIONS

 

• Avoid this asana unless instructed any modifications by professionals if you have any of the below or feel uncomfortable any time during your practice.
• High blood pressure – attempt this asana if you have a good balance or practice with lower intensity.
• Injuries to hips, legs, knees, shoulders, or neck.
• Have a migraine, headaches, vertigo.