How to do Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose)

Utthita Parsvakonasana pose is a typical beginner-level, standup yoga asana. This pose is particularly responsible to stretch parts of the body that do not typically get strained. This pose is also known as the extended flank angle. This asana has its name resulting from the Sanskrit word ‘Utthita’ that means ‘extended’, ‘Parsva’ means ‘ side’, ‘kona’ means ‘angle’ and ‘asana’ means ‘posture’ or ‘pose’. This pose also benefits your body to get familiar to extending and twisting. In 'Yoga and You' yoga expert Priyanka shows us how to do Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose).

How to:
1. Start by standing straight on your mat, feet placed together.
2. Step out your right feet at least 4-5 steps away with your left leg at a 90-degree angle to the ground.
3. As you exhale, lean into the right hip joint so that your thigh is parallel to the floor.
4. Bend down and place your right hand next to your right foot.
5. Roll your left arm and extend it over your head.
6. Turn your head to look at your hand.
7. Hold this posture for a few deep breaths.
8. Slowly, drop your hand back down and lift yourself up.
9. Bring your feet back together and relax.

Why to:
1. It not only stretches but also strengthens the knees, ankles, and the legs.
2. The groins, chest, spine, waist, lungs, and shoulders get a good stretch.
3. The abdominal organs are stimulated.
4. Stamina is increased.
5. This asana also gives therapeutic relief from constipation, infertility, lower backaches, osteoporosis, sciatica, and menstrual discomfort.

Caution:
1. In case you have a neck problem, do not look at the extended arm; look straight or down instead.
2. Avoid this asana if you have any of these conditions: A headache, High or low blood pressure and/or Insomnia.

Best time:
It is essential to make sure that your bowels and stomach are empty before you perform this asana. It might be a good idea to give a gap of a few hours between your last meal and the exercise. This will allow enough time for your food to digest well. This asana works best when practised in the morning. But you could practice it in the evening too.







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