Yoga BLOG

Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana: the rotated side angle It's one of the most graceful yoga poses: Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana is the side-twisted angle pose that combines a soothing twist with a gentle stretch and grounding core strength. As in many other cases, the Sanskrit name well explains what this pose looks like. "Parivrtta" means "twisted," "baddha" means "bound," "parsva" is the side or flank of the body, "kona" is the angle, and "asana," as you probably know, is the word for "exercise" or "pose." Parivrtta Badha Parsvakonasana is a posture in which you twist backward from a wide-stretched stance with your hands tied. This is done by bringing one arm under your front bent leg and the other behind your back. Here you can learn more about the pose, which, due to its complexity, can bring you a multitude of beneficial effects. Experience the effects on body, mind and soul In the twisted side angle pose, as in all standing positions, you build strength in your leg muscles . You also ground yourself to the earth, which supports you. The side twist also strengthens your core muscles, especially those of your lower back. At the same time, the muscles in this area are stretched, as are those on the back of your back leg. Linking your arms also promotes flexibility, which you can put to good use in your everyday life and at work. Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana activates your Manipura chakra . This allows you to strengthen your self-confidence and learn to recognize and appreciate your worth. Fear and negative thoughts can be reduced. Furthermore, the twisted side angle helps you strengthen your power by igniting your inner fire. What you should pay attention to during this exercise In Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana, it's important that your front knee is directly over your foot, which should point slightly outward. You should avoid tilting your knee inward when aligning your knees. Before you twist your torso backward and upward, it's important to be mindful of two things. First, Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana is an exercise that you should practice from a secure standing position. Second, the twist requires length in the body so that your vertebrae have the necessary space during the twist. Therefore, consciously stretch yourself before twisting and perform the twist slowly and with concentration. Accept help The side-twisted angle pose isn't easy for every yogi to master right away. Feel free to take advantage of any adjustments or alternatives your yoga teachers can show you. This includes, for example, not necessarily choosing the bound form at first. You can also rest your upper bent arm on your upper waist and twist in this position. If you're not ready for the twist yet, you can also practice the wide stride pose. You can rest your elbow on your knee if you wish. For more stability in your standing position and thus better balance, you can also place your back foot against a wall. To practice Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana, you can also support yourself in the stride position with your hand on the floor next to your foot and then twist up. If this isn't easy for you, you can also place your hand on a block, adjusted to your needs, and then shorten the distance to the floor for yourself. Your hips should always be straight in Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana and not tilt forward. Therefore, only choose the bound form of the pose if it doesn't pull your hips and upper body upward. Keep your gaze relaxed, and always position your head so that you allow your neck to relax. Then hold the pose calmly and allow your breath to transport the beneficial energy into your body. Image © f8studio / 123rf.com