Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle)
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Yoga Techniques and Fitness
Overview
In this lesson, we introduce Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle Pose), a fundamental standing pose that lengthens the side body while expanding the chest and improving breath.
Objective
Understand the alignment principles and benefits of this pose, particularly how to maintain length in both sides of the waist while strengthening and opening the entire body.
What You'll Get
What You'll Get: You'll learn why this isn't truly a side stretch—you're working to keep both sides of the waist long, not collapsing one. The lesson covers how to protect your knees and maintain strength in the back leg while opening hips, chest, and shoulders. You'll discover how this pose expands the rib cage for better breathing and develops the stamina needed for longer holds. For professionals, you'll understand proper alignment cues to prevent knee and neck strain, how to use variations for different levels, and how this pose stimulates digestion and builds whole-body strength and stability.
Utthita Parsvakonasana
oo-TEE-tah parsh-vah-cone-AHS-anna
utthita = extended
parsva = side, sideways, flank
kona = angle
Extended Side Angle Pose
Heart of Pose
Standing Pose
Notes
Utthita Trikonasana and Utthita Parsvakonasana aren’t true side-stretching poses because you’re working in them to keep length in both sides of the waist and ribs. – Julie Gudmestad
- Considered a fundamental standing pose
- Useful for lengthening side body, expanding chest, improving breath & developing awareness & stamina
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