Sanskrit: Utthita Parsvakonasana
oot-tee-tah PARSH-vah-ko-NAH-sah-nah
Benefits
Strengthens legs and ankles; stretches groins and shoulders
Stimulates abdominal organs
Improves stamina
Standard Cues
Begin standing. Step your feet 3 v2 to 4 feet apart with an inhale. Bring feet parallel.
Bring your arms to shoulder height, palms facing down. Turn your right foot 90 degrees to the right.
Bend your right knee with an exhale, bringing the thigh parallel to the floor. Align knee over ankle.
Bend to the right with an exhale, bringing your fingertips to the floor just outside of your right foot. Reach your left arm up with an inhale, then lower the arm alongside your ear, palm facing down. Gaze toward your top arm.
Hold the pose and take slow, deep breaths.
Rise with an inhale, then exhale and step your feet together. Change sides.
Short Cues and Options
Bring back leg, torso and extended arm in one diagonal line
Center body weight evenly between feet
Lightly rest fingertips on floor
Anchor outer edge of foot to floor
Align knee over ankle
Modification: Gaze toward the floor. Rest your forearm on your thigh instead of reaching to the floor.
Precautionary Warnings
Avoid this pose if you have high or low blood pressure.