Parivrtta Parsvakonasana

What it is

Parivrtta Parsvakonasana, or revolved side angle, follows extended side angle in the Primary standing sequence.

What it looks like

With the front knee bent, you twist toward the front leg and bring the opposite arm outside the knee, either placing the hand on the floor or joining the palms together. The upper arm reaches overhead or binds behind the back. The pose is held for five breaths on each side.

Why it is practised

It is a twisting standing pose that asks for strength in the legs, balance, and steady breathing in a compact shape.

What to pay attention to

Keep the back foot on the mat — or lift the back heel at first if needed. Twist gradually with the breath rather than pulling with the arms. Hands in prayer at the chest is a common simpler version.

Who it suits

It suits students with some standing-pose experience. Beginners usually learn an adapted version first. In Mysore-style practice a teacher shows you suitable variations as you learn — you can work on this in private sessions.

Next in the sequence: Prasarita Padottanasana A.