Trikonasana

Trikonasana (Triangle Pose) is a lateral standing pose that opens the hips and strengthens the legs and the spine. Engaging the legs stabilizes the knees and aligns the hips, and may have the added benefit of developing bone density by placing healthy stress on the bones. Resisting gravity, your core engages similar to a twist to keep the chest open and the spine straight. The mind-body connection is enhanced as deeper, intrinsic spinal muscles engage to support alignment.

As the legs remain straight in this pose, pay careful attention not to hyperextend your knees, especially the front knee. Any limitations in the lower body will need to be compensated for throughout the upper body, so take your time when working on alignment.

Do NOT perform this pose if you have:

• A headache/migraine
• Uncontrolled low blood pressure
• Rotator cuff issues: change top arm position
• Heart condition: top arm stays at the hip, practice with a wall behind you
• Neck issues: keep your gaze forward
• High blood pressure: gaze toward the floor

It is important to listen to your body in any pose. If you feel numbness or tingling, you may be obstructing blood flow or nerve signals and you should back out of the pose. Any sharp pain or shooting sensations are indications of poor alignment and overstretching, also your body’s way of telling you to back off.