Triangle (Trikonasana)
Pose Overview
| Common Name | Triangle |
| Traditional Sanskrit Name | Trikonasana |
| Sanskrit Name Pronunciation | tree-cone-AHS-ah-nuh |
| Pose Difficulty | Beginner |
| Drishti
Drishti is the gaze or visual focus point during yoga poses.
Learn more about Drishti |
Upward, towards the sky |
Triangle Pose, or 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 creates a triangular shape with the body, with one leg extended out to the side and the other leg in a lunge position. 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 Triangle
Strengthening the core, legs and open up the chest, improves digestion, and can help relieve stress
How to Enter Triangle
Start in Tadasana (Mountain Pose) Step your feet 3-4 feet apart, and turn your right foot out 90 degrees and your left foot in slightly Raise your arms parallel to the ground and reach them actively out to the sides, shoulder blades wide and down Turn your left foot in slightly and your right foot out to 90 degrees As you exhale, reach your right hand down to your right ankle or the floor inside or outside of your right foot. Extend your left arm straight up toward the ceiling Keep your head in a neutral position, or turn it to gaze at your left thumb Hold the pose for 30 seconds to 1 minute, then release and repeat on the opposite side
How to Exit Triangle
Release your hand from your ankle or the floor Inhale and come up to Tadasana.
Common Triangle Modifications & Variations
If you can't reach the floor with your hand, place it on a block If you have a shoulder injury, keep your hand on your hip instead of reaching it up
Common Mistakes with Triangle
Not aligning the front heel with the back arch Not rotating the back foot properly Hunching the shoulders Not engaging the core
Safety Guidance
Make sure to align your front heel with the arch of your back foot Keep your core engaged Avoid hunching your shoulders
