UTTHITA PARSVAKONASANA
Steps
- Begin in Mountain Pose (Tadasana).
- INHALE and step your feet 3 ½ to 4 feet apart. Bring feet parallel.
- Bring your arms to shoulder height, palms facing down. Turn your right foot 90 degrees to the right.
- EXHALE and bend your right knee bringing the thigh parallel to the floor. Align your knee over your ankle.
- INHALE
- EXHALE and bend to the right, bringing your fingertips to the floor just outside of your right foot.
- INHALE reach your left arm up then lower the arm alongside your ear, palm facing down. Gaze toward your top arm.
- Hold the pose and 5-6 take slow, deep breaths.
- INHALE and rise.
- EXHALE and step your feet together.
- Repeat opposite side.
Modifications:
- Gaze toward the floor.
- Rest your forearm on your thigh instead of reaching to the floor.
Benefits
- Strengthens legs and ankles; stretches groins and shoulders
- Stimulates abdominal organs
- Improves stamina
When to Avoid
- Avoid this pose if you have high or low blood pressure.
