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Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose

Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana · परिवृत्त बद्ध पार्श्वकोणासन

Also known as: Twisted Bound Side Angle

ParivrttaRevolved·BaddhaBound·ParsvakonasanaParsvakonasana·AsanaPose

Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose, also called Twisted Bound Side Angle is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana translates word-for-word as: Parivrtta (Revolved) · Baddha (Bound) · Parsvakonasana (Parsvakonasana) · Asana (Pose). From a standing position, the body rotates the spine, creating space between each vertebra. The posture works to engage the obliques, open and strengthen the shoulders and stretch the hip flexors. Opens shoulders and chest. Strengthens legs. It is particularly valued for developing greater flexibility. Suitable for advanced practitioners with developed body awareness, it is a meaningful addition to any practice. A strap can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with spinal injury and shoulder injury should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

5

Avoid If

5
  • Back Injury / Back Pain

    Spinal flexion, extension, or rotation under load can compress vertebral discs or strain the paraspinal muscles.

    Initiate the twist from the upper spine and ribs rather than forcing from the waist; keep both sitting bones grounded.

  • Shoulder Injury

    Overhead loading and extreme shoulder rotation can impinge the subacromial space and overload rotator cuff tendons.

    Reduce the range of motion, avoid full arm extension, and use props to limit load on the shoulder joint.

  • Knee Injury

    Deep flexion or rotation at the knee can strain ligaments, meniscus, or cartilage, especially in a compromised joint.

    Never push into pain; use a folded blanket under or between the knees and reduce the depth of the bend.

  • Pregnancy

    Deep twists, abdominal compression, and lying flat on the back can restrict blood flow or cause discomfort as pregnancy progresses.

    Twist from the upper thoracic spine only, opening the chest rather than compressing the abdomen; use a chair for support.

Props That Can Help

Optional supports — use when helpful, not required

Yoga Strap

A strap extends your reach and allows the pose to be held with correct alignment before full flexibility is established.

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
Looking around the room — keep the gaze fixed

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
  • 6Fix the gaze on a steady point (drishti) for balance

Pose Details

Helps With

digestive problemsflexibilitystrength

Pose Type

twistbalance

Body Focus

spinehipsshoulders

Focus Areas

flexibilitystrengthbalance

Yoga Styles

ashtangavinyasapower

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

standing

Modify If You Have

shoulder injury

Skip the bind — place hands in prayer twist instead.

Target Areas

ObliquesDeltoidsAdductorsQuadsUpper BackLower Back

Practice Flow

How to Practice

1

1. Start in Tadasana.

2

2. Step the right foot far back — prepare for Warrior I stance.

3

3. Bend the left knee to 90 degrees.

4

4. Inhale, arms up.

5

5. Exhale, twist the torso to the left.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana

What is Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose?

Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose, also called Twisted Bound Side Angle is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Parivrtta Baddha Parsvakonasana translates word-for-word as: Parivrtta (Revolved) · Baddha (Bound) · Parsvakonasana (Parsvakonasana) · Asana (Pose). From a standing position, the body rotates the spine, creating space between each vertebra. The posture works to engage the obliques, open and strengthen the shoulders and stretch the hip flexors. Opens shoulders and chest. Strengthens legs. It is particularly valued for developing greater flexibility. Suitable for advanced practitioners with developed body awareness, it is a meaningful addition to any practice. A strap can be used to make the posture more accessible and support correct alignment. Practitioners with spinal injury and shoulder injury should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.

What are the benefits of Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose?

Deep spinal twist with binding. Opens shoulders and chest. Strengthens legs. Stimulates digestion. Builds determination.

Who should avoid Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose?

Avoid this pose if you have: Spinal injuries, Shoulder injuries, Knee injuries, Pregnancy, Low blood pressure.

How many steps are in Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose?

Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose is practiced in 10 steps. Start in Tadasana.

Is Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose suitable for beginners?

Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose is an advanced-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.

What props are needed for Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose?

You may use: strap. Props make the pose more accessible and comfortable.

What conditions does Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose help with?

Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose is therapeutic for: digestive problems, flexibility, strength.

What poses should I do before Revolved Bound Side Angle Pose?

Prepare with: Staff Pose, Bharadvajasana I (seated), Marichyasana I (seated). These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

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