At One Big Heart Yoga Studio, we are dedicated to fostering your growth in both mental and physical wellness through yoga. In this blog post, we’ll take a close look at Extended Side Angle Pose – a posture that helps improve strength, balance, and flexibility. We’ll discuss what the pose is, why it’s important, and how to practice it correctly.
What is Extended Side Angle Pose?
Extended Side Angle Pose, or Utthita Parsvakonasana, is a standing pose that combines a deep lunge with a side stretch. This posture offers a full-body experience, engaging your legs, core, and upper body while also challenging your balance and flexibility.
Why is Extended Side Angle Pose important?
- Builds strength: This pose strengthens the legs, glutes, and core muscles, promoting overall body strength and stability.
- Enhances balance: Extended Side Angle Pose challenges your equilibrium, helping you develop a greater sense of balance and body awareness.
- Increases flexibility: The pose provides a deep stretch for the hips, groin, and side body, improving flexibility and mobility.
- Opens the chest and shoulders: The side stretch in Extended Side Angle Pose encourages an opening in the chest and shoulders, promoting better posture and breathing.
- Stimulates the abdominal organs: As a side stretch, Extended Side Angle Pose can stimulate the abdominal organs, aiding digestion and detoxification.
How to practice Extended Side Angle Pose:
- Begin in Warrior II Pose with your right knee bent and right foot facing forward.
- Exhale and lean your torso to the right, placing your right forearm on your right thigh.
- Reach your left arm straight up, palm facing forward, and then extend it over your head, creating a straight line from your left heel to your left fingertips.
- Keep your gaze forward or slightly up, depending on what feels best for your neck.
- Engage your core and maintain the bend in your right knee, ensuring it stays directly above your ankle.
- Hold the pose for 5-10 breaths or as long as you feel comfortable.
- To exit the pose, press through your feet and inhale as you lift your torso up and lower your arms. Repeat on the other side.
Incorporating Extended Side Angle Pose into your yoga practice can help you build strength, improve balance, and increase flexibility. At One Big Heart Yoga Studio, we are committed to helping you experience these benefits and more, offering expert guidance and a nurturing community. Join us today and discover the transformative power of yoga for yourself.
