Side Angle (Parsvakonasana)
Pose Overview
| Common Name | Side Angle |
| Traditional Sanskrit Name | Parsvakonasana |
| Sanskrit Name Pronunciation | parsh-vah-cone-AHS-ah-nuh |
| Pose Difficulty | Intermediate |
| Drishti
Drishti is the gaze or visual focus point during yoga poses.
Learn more about Drishti |
Upward, towards the sky |
Side Angle Pose, or Parsvakonasana 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 creates a side angle shape with the legs, torso and 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 Side Angle
Strengthens the legs, especially the thighs and knees Stretches the spine, hips, and chest Improves balance and stability Helps to open the shoulders and chest Aids in digestion and helps to relieve stress
How to Enter Side Angle
Begin in Tadasana (Mountain Pose) Step your feet wide apart, about 4-5 feet Turn your left foot out 90 degrees and your right foot in slightly Align the heel of your front foot with the arch of your back foot Bend your left knee, keeping the knee directly over the ankle Bring your left hand to the left hip and extend your right arm straight up Keep both legs active and engage your core Gaze up at your right hand or forward
How to Exit Side Angle
Release your left hand from your hip and straighten your left leg Turn both feet forward Come back to Tadasana
Common Side Angle Modifications & Variations
Place a block underneath the hand on the hip for added support Use a wall for balance if needed Rest the hand on the thigh instead of the hip Use a strap around the back foot if you have difficulty reaching it
Common Mistakes with Side Angle
Collapsing the front knee Rounding the spine Not keeping both legs active
Safety Guidance
Keep your front knee directly over the ankle Engage your core to prevent collapsing in the front knee or rounding in the spine Do not overdo the stretch in the spine or shoulders if you have any injuries in these areas
