Dragonfly/Grasshopper/Hummingbird (Parsva Bhuja Dandasana)
Pose Overview
| Common Name | Dragonfly, Grasshopper, Hummingbird |
| Traditional Sanskrit Name | Parsva Bhuja Dandasana |
| Sanskrit Name Pronunciation | pahr-shvah bhoo-jah dahn-dah-sah-nah |
| Pose Difficulty | Advanced |
| Drishti
Drishti is the gaze or visual focus point during yoga poses.
Learn more about Drishti |
Straight ahead or the nose |
Dragonfly Parsva Bhuja Dandasana, also known as Side Arm Balance, is an advanced yoga pose that requires a combination of strength, balance, and flexibility. Originating from the Ashtanga and Power yoga traditions, this pose demands focus and concentration, making it an excellent tool for developing mindfulness and mental clarity. With its many physical benefits, including increased flexibility in the hips and spine, strengthened arms and core muscles, and improved balance and coordination, Dragonfly Parsva Bhuja Dandasana is a pose that can help take your yoga practice to the next level. Whether you're an experienced yogi looking for a challenge, or simply looking to improve your overall fitness and wellbeing, this pose is well worth incorporating into your regular routine.
Benefits of Dragonfly, Grasshopper, Hummingbird
Strengthens the arms, back, and core muscles Increases flexibility in the hips and spine Improves balance and coordination Enhances focus and concentration Stimulates the digestive and respiratory systems
How to Enter Dragonfly, Grasshopper, Hummingbird
Begin in the plank pose, with your hands shoulder-width apart and feet hip-width apart. Place your right hand beside your right foot, making sure that your hand is directly under your shoulder. Extend your left arm straight up towards the ceiling. Look towards your left hand and hold the pose for five breaths. Repeat on the other side.
How to Exit Dragonfly, Grasshopper, Hummingbird
Lower your right hand down to the floor. Place your left hand down to the floor, one arm's length away from your right hand. Step your right foot back to plank pose. Repeat on the other side.
Common Dragonfly, Grasshopper, Hummingbird Modifications & Variations
For a gentler modification, try the pose with the knee of your bent leg on the ground. For a more challenging variation, try lifting your top leg off the ground.
Common Mistakes with Dragonfly, Grasshopper, Hummingbird
Not keeping your core engaged, causing your hips to sag towards the ground. Not keeping your gaze towards your hand, causing you to lose balance.
Safety Guidance
Make sure to warm up thoroughly before attempting this pose. Avoid this pose if you have any wrist injuries. If you have any back injuries, avoid arching your back and keep it as straight as possible.
