Extended Side Angle

Utthita Parsvakonasana

This standing posture will open your hips and chest, strengthen your legs, and warm your entire body.

Other Names

Bent Knee Triangle

Benefits

Strengthens upper back, legs, and arms
Stretches groins, hips, inner thighs and chest muscles, while lengthening spinal and intercostal muscles
Increases energy and stamina while building internal heat

Contraindications

High blood pressure
Neck injury or pain - Instead of turning your head to look forward over your front hand, look straight ahead
Knee injury

Modifications

You can place your bottom hand on a block on the inside or outside of your front foot to allow for more length
You can practice this posture against a wall if you struggle with balance
If you have a neck injury you can avoid looking up and look forward instead

Chakras

This posture balances the Root Chakra (Muladhara), Sacral Chakra (Svadhisthana), and Solar Plexus Chakra (Manipura). Practicing this posture can help one feel stable, connected and powerful, while helping to balance emotions.

What to Eat Before Yoga

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Extended Side Angle

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Extended Side Angle