Side Stretch Pose (Parshvasana)

 Side Stretch Pose

Parshvasana

Modification: fingers interlocked, palms pressed together

Pose Type: standing, side bend

Drishti Point: Nasagrai or Nasagre (nose), Urdhva or Antara Drishti (up to the sky)

 Parshvasana yoga pose

Parshvasana, also known as the "puppy pose," is a gentle yoga pose that can help to stretch the shoulders, spine, and hips. This pose is often used as a warm-up for other yoga poses and can be modified for different levels of flexibility.

To begin, start on your hands and knees on your yoga mat. Make sure your wrists are directly under your shoulders and your knees are directly under your hips. Slowly start to walk your hands forward, keeping your hips back towards your heels. Keep your arms straight as you gently press your chest towards the ground.

As you hold the pose, focus on your breath and try to relax the muscles in your shoulders and back. You can also use your breath to help deepen the stretch by exhaling as you press your chest towards the ground.

For a more advanced version of the pose, you can try lifting one leg up off the ground while holding the pose. This will add an additional stretch to the hip of the lifted leg.

Parshvasana is a great yoga pose for those who spend a lot of time sitting or working at a desk, as it can help to alleviate tension in the shoulders and back. It's also a good pose for those who are new to yoga, as it's a gentle way to warm up the body before moving into more challenging poses.

Always remember to listen to your body and never push beyond your limits. If you feel any pain or discomfort, come out of the pose and take a break.

Incorporating Parshvasana in your regular yoga practice can help to improve posture, relieve stress and tension, and increase flexibility in the shoulders, spine, and hips. Give it a try and see how you feel!

Benefits of Parshvasana yoga pose 

Benefits of Parshvasana yoga pose

Parshvasana, or the seated forward bend pose, has several benefits for the body and mind. Physically, it stretches the hamstrings, lower back, and spine. It also helps to improve digestion and relieve stress and tension in the back and shoulders. Mentally, it can help to calm the mind and reduce anxiety. Additionally, Parshvasana can also help to improve concentration and focus, and can also improve blood circulation and stimulates the nerves. Overall, it is a great pose for overall health and well-being."

 

Parshvasana also has several other benefits. It can help to strengthen the knees, thighs and ankle, improves the flexibility of the spine, and increases the blood flow to the brain. It also stimulates the organs of the abdomen and helps to improve digestion and elimination. The pose also helps to open the chest, which can be beneficial for people with asthma or other respiratory issues. Additionally, Parshvasana can also help to reduce stress and anxiety and improve overall energy levels. It is also a great pose for those who suffer from insomnia as it can help to relax the mind and promote better sleep."