Parsvottansana is a standing as well as twisting pose which works on your spine, legs, back and abdomen. Parsvottansana means intense side stretch pose. The sides of the chest and the legs are stretched intensely. Practicing this pose opens up the shoulders which improves the body posture. As with other standing poses it builds up leg strength also. Since this is also a forward bending pose this calms down agitated mind.

Steps to Practice Parsvottansana

1. Stand in Tadasana with the feet around 3 to 3.5 feet apart.
2. Join the hands in the back doing a namaste at the back.
3. With inhalation turn the torso to the right and turn the right foot 90 degrees to the body and adjust the left foot by turning appropriately.
4. Stretch back and pull back the shoulders and head back.
5. Take few deep breaths.
6. With exhalation bend forward and try to touch the head to the knee. Tighten the knees and gradually try to stretch more.
7. Stay in the pose for around 20 breaths initially and then increase it to 40 breaths.
8. With exhalation come out of the pose and then repeat the pose on the other side for the same duration.

Note : If joining the hands is difficult the just hold the wrist of one hand with the other and practice the pose.

Benefits of Parsvottansana Practice

1. Stretches the spine, shoulders and wrists, hips, and hamstrings
2. Massages and Stimulates the abdominal organs and hence improves digestion
3. Improves posture and sense of balance
4. Strengthens the legs and increases flexibility
5. Calms the agitated mind

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