FM
Photo: Amanda Brooks McLatchieBenefits
Aside from being a strong balance infused
pose, this is also a heart opener. Opening
through the chest will help you increase
oxygen. As you gain control of your breath
you can also gain control of your mental
status. Breath control ultimately results in
peace. This is a detoxifying pose, allowing you
to cleanse the inner organs. It also promotes
mobility and core strength.Common Mistakes
Misalignment of the front leg is common. In an
attempt to deepen the lunge, many times the
knee will extend past the ankle (over the foot).
It is also common to see people collapse into
the shoulder of the arm that is down. This puts
a lot of unnecessary weight on those joints,
which can be damaging over time.Tips
n I encourage the use of a block to keep
proper alignment and help prevent injury.
The block should allow you to get into
the pose without straining. It should also
give you some leverage in the twist if
you need it.
n Look down at the hand on the ground
until you’re stable enough to take your
gaze to the raised hand. Looking down
takes some pressure off of the neck.
It will also be easier to balance.Awareness
Like every pose, your alignment will be very
important in this pose. Be sure to stack
your joints, Shoulder over wrist and knee
over ankle. Keep the edge of your back foot
pressed into the mat. This will help you keep
that back leg strong and straight. Now
you are reaching, twisting, pushing,
stretching, and of course breathing.
Body awareness is key as you
are effortlessly doing many
different things with
your body.Revolved Side Angle
(Parivrtta Parsvakonasana)
Man on the mat with Brendon Payne