Sanskrit: Uttitha Parsvakonasana
English: Extended Side Angle
Shape Shifting Posture: Bathing Croc
Lesson of the Bathing Croc:
The bathing croc asks us to dive into our emotions and seek fluidity, healing and cleansing in these realms. These creatures are fearless, and their energy is strong; representing an equal balance between earth and water. As we continue our yogic journey, we too can become grounded, and settled in our emotions.
Benefits, Systems, Considerations
Benefits:
Boost Energy
Strengthens the Legs
Lengthens the Sides
Develops endurance
Systems:
Skeletal – strength and structural support for the spine
Muscular – strengthens and stretches all side body muscles and quadriceps
Circulatory – massages and strengthens heart muscles
Respiratory – Opens chest for deeper breathe
Digestive – supports and stimulates digestion
Reproductive – Relief from menstrual discomfort and infertility
Considerations:
If you have knee pain or injury, don’t bend your front knee quite as deeply.
For balance issues, stand your feet a bit closer
Lower back pain, injury or sacroiliac pain, move slowly following the breath. Can stand with feet a bit closer and hands on hips.
Students with high blood pressure should stay for much shorter periods of time, such as 4-6 breaths and be mindful of any discomfort or dizziness.
