Sanskrit: Utthita Trikonasana
Benefits
Strengthens thighs; stretches legs, hips and shoulders.
Tones reproductive organs; improves digestion.
Relieves stress and anxiety.
Standard Cue
Begin standing. Step your feet 3 to 4 feet apart. Bring feet parallel.
Bring your arms to shoulder height, palms facing down. Turn your right foot 9 degrees to the right. Turn your left foot slightly in.
Reach your right arm out to the right and then down with an exhale. Bring your hand to your shin or ankle. Inhale and reach your left arm toward the sky, palm facing forward. Gaze up toward your hand.
Hold the pose and take slow, deep breaths.
Look down and activate your core and legs. Rise with an inhale, then exhale and step your feet together. Change sides.
Short Cues & Options
Stretch hands away from each other.
Lengthen both sides of torso.
Anchor outer edge of foot to floor.
Gaze toward the floor or up.
Lower hand onto a block.
Upper hand on your hip or bound behind you on your inner hip crease.
Precautionary Warnings
Avoid this pose if you have low blood pressure.