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Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)Beginnertwist

Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)

भरद्वाजासन I (संस्थित)

Bharadvajasana I is a seated twist that improves spinal mobility and stimulates the abdominal organs. Using a blanket under the hips helps to maintain a straight spine and deepen the twist.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

4
  • Headache
  • Diarrhea
  • Back injury (proceed with caution)
  • Pregnancy (modify by avoiding deep twist)

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forcing the twist from the shoulders instead of initiating from the abdomen
Rounding the spine — maintain length before rotating
Lifting one sitting bone off the floor
Holding the breath during the rotation
Twisting beyond a comfortable range — respect your body's limits
Forcing the hips open beyond their current range

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 cues
  • 1Lengthen the spine on the inhalation, deepen the twist on the exhalation
  • 2Initiate the rotation from the navel, then the chest, finally the head
  • 3Keep both sitting bones grounded equally
  • 4Maintain the length of the spine — do not collapse into the twist
  • 5Use the breath to create space for the rotation
  • 6Allow the hip joints to open gradually — never force

Pose Details

Pose Type

twisthip opener

Body Focus

spinehipsshoulders

Focus Areas

flexibilityrelaxationbreathing

Best For

beginnersseniorsprenatalpostnataldesk workers

Yoga Styles

iyengarhatharestorative

When to Practice

warm upcool downrestorativequick practice

Position

seated

Target Areas

Upper BackLower BackDeltoids

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Bharadvajasana I is a seated twist that improves spinal mobility and stimulates the abdominal organs. Using a blanket under the hips helps to maintain a straight spine and deepen the twist.

How to Practice

1

1. Begin in Dandasana (Staff Pose), legs extended straight out in front of you.

2

2. Sit on a folded blanket to elevate your hips, making it easier to maintain a straight spine.

3

3. Bend your knees and bring your feet to the left hip, resting the outer edge of the left foot on the floor. The right foot rests on the floor outside the left hip.

4

4. Inhale, lengthen your spine and lift your chest.

5

5. Exhale, twist your torso to the right, keeping your spine long.

4 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)

What is Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)?

Bharadvajasana I is a seated twist that improves spinal mobility and stimulates the abdominal organs. Using a blanket under the hips helps to maintain a straight spine and deepen the twist.

What are the benefits of Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)?

Improves spinal mobility. Stimulates the abdominal organs. Relieves stress and tension. Therapeutic for carpal tunnel syndrome. Strengthens the back muscles.

Who should avoid Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)?

Avoid this pose if you have: Headache, Diarrhea, Back injury (proceed with caution), Pregnancy (modify by avoiding deep twist).

How many steps are in Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)?

Bharadvajasana I (with blanket) is practiced in 9 steps. Begin in Dandasana (Staff Pose), legs extended straight out in front of you.

Is Bharadvajasana I (with blanket) suitable for beginners?

Yes, Bharadvajasana I (with blanket) is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What props are needed for Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)?

You may use: blanket, block. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.

What poses should I do before Bharadvajasana I (with blanket)?

Prepare with: Supta Tadasana, Apanasana, Seated Tadasana. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

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