Revolved Triangle (Parivrtta Trikonasana)

Pose Overview

Common Name Revolved Triangle
Traditional Sanskrit Name Parivrtta Trikonasana
Sanskrit Name Pronunciation pah-ree-vrit-tah tree-koh-NAH-sah-nah
Pose Difficulty Intermediate
Drishti
Drishti is the gaze or visual focus point during yoga poses.
Learn more about Drishti
Over the shoulder

Revolved Triangle Pose, or Parivrtta Trikonasana in Sanskrit, is a yoga pose that is said to be beneficial for stretching out the sides of the body, as well as for promoting a sense of balance and focus. The name of the pose comes from the fact that it involves twisting the torso and extending one arm up towards the sky, which creates a triangle shape with the legs and the extended arm. The pose is said to be helpful for increasing flexibility and strength in the sides of the body, and for promoting a sense of balance and focus. It is also said to be beneficial for relieving stress and anxiety, and for promoting a sense of inner peace. This pose is also said to help to open the sides of the body, and to help to release tension in the obliques.

Benefits of Revolved Triangle

Improves balance, strengthens the core and legs, stretches the hips, chest, and shoulders, and helps to relieve stress and tension in the spine

How to Enter Revolved Triangle

Start in a wide stance with your feet about 3-4 feet apart. Turn your left foot out 90 degrees and your right foot in about 15 degrees. Keep your left heel in line with your right arch. Place your hands on your hips and ground down through both feet. Inhale, raise your arms out to the sides, and then up overhead. Exhale and twist your torso to the left as you bend your left knee and reach your left hand down to the ground. Keep your right hand reaching up towards the sky. Keep your right hip stacked on top of your left.

How to Exit Revolved Triangle

Inhale and straighten your left leg. Exhale and release the twist in your torso. Lower your arms. Turn your feet forward and come back to a neutral stance.

Common Revolved Triangle Modifications & Variations

If you are unable to reach the ground with your hand, use a block or place your hand on your ankle or calf. If you have tight hips, keep your back leg straight and only twist as far as you can go without compromising the alignment of your spine.

Common Mistakes with Revolved Triangle

Locking the knee of the front leg Allowing the front knee to move in front of the ankle Not twisting evenly through the spine Not keeping the hips level

Safety Guidance

If you have high blood pressure or a headache, skip this pose. If you have a shoulder injury, keep your hand on your hip instead of reaching it overhead. Use caution if you have a back injury, as the twisting motion may aggravate it.