Yoga Chikitsa · Primary · Standing Sequence
Parsvottanasana
Intense side stretch
What it is
Parsvottanasana, or intense side stretch, follows the wide-legged folds in the Primary standing sequence.
What it looks like
One foot steps forward and the back foot turns in. The hands join in prayer behind the back, and you fold forward over the front leg. The pose is held for five breaths on each side.
Why it is practised
It focuses the forward fold onto one leg at a time and asks the hips to stay level, which brings attention to balance and alignment.
What to pay attention to
Square the hips toward the front foot. Keep the back heel down. If prayer behind the back is uncomfortable, hold the opposite elbows or place the hands on the floor or the shin.
Who it suits
It suits most practitioners, with simpler hand positions for those with tight shoulders. 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: Utthita Hasta Padangusthasana.
Hands in prayer behind the back, or to the floor.
Square the hips over the front foot.
Practise this Primary pose in a Mysore-style room, or in a private session in Dubai or online.
See session formats, upcoming dates and the shala.