Side Angle (Parshvakonasana)

A Vata-Pacifying Yoga Pose

side angle

From Warrior II, begin to lengthen the right side of the body, placing the right elbow above the right knee, and open the chest by rotating your left shoulder back and away from the ear. The left arm can extend alongside your left ear or you can bring the left hand to your left hip. Fix your gaze upward or below.

Vata Focus:

Keep the front knee in alignment with the ankle. (The knee should not extend beyond the ankle.) Anchor through the lower body as you spin the front femur externally to increase the opening in the hips.

Benefits:

Cultivates strength and stability, opens the hips, and builds endurance.