Revolved Lotus Pose
Parivrtta Padmasana · परिवृत्त पद्मासन
Also known as: Lotus Twist · Parivrtta Padmasana
Revolved Lotus Pose, also called Lotus Twist is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Parivrtta Padmasana translates word-for-word as: Parivrtta (Revolved) · Padmasana (Padmasana) · Asana (Pose). In this posture, the body rotates the spine, creating space between each vertebra. The posture works to engage the obliques. Aids digestion. Calms the mind. It is particularly valued for developing greater flexibility. Suitable for intermediate practitioners with foundational yoga experience, it is a calming cool-down. Practitioners with knee injury and spinal injury should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.
Anatomy Involved
Benefits
- Spinal mobility in lotus
- Aids digestion
- Calms the mind
- Combines hip opening with twist
- Full anatomical benefits — muscles, joints, organs →
Avoid If
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.
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.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Teaching Cues
For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students
5 cues
Teaching Cues
For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students
- 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
Pose Details
Helps With
Pose Type
Body Focus
Focus Areas
Yoga Styles
When to Practice
Position
Modify If You Have
knee injury
Do Parivrtta Sukhasana instead (cross-legged twist).
Target Areas
Practice Flow
How to Practice
1. Sit in Padmasana.
2. Spine erect, shoulders relaxed.
3. Inhale, lengthen the spine.
4. Exhale, twist to the right.
5. Place the left hand on the right knee.
5 more steps remaining
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Parivrtta Padmasana
What is Revolved Lotus Pose?
Revolved Lotus Pose, also called Lotus Twist is a classical yoga posture. Its Sanskrit name Parivrtta Padmasana translates word-for-word as: Parivrtta (Revolved) · Padmasana (Padmasana) · Asana (Pose). In this posture, the body rotates the spine, creating space between each vertebra. The posture works to engage the obliques. Aids digestion. Calms the mind. It is particularly valued for developing greater flexibility. Suitable for intermediate practitioners with foundational yoga experience, it is a calming cool-down. Practitioners with knee injury and spinal injury should approach with care or consult a qualified teacher.
What are the benefits of Revolved Lotus Pose?
Spinal mobility in lotus. Aids digestion. Calms the mind. Combines hip opening with twist.
Who should avoid Revolved Lotus Pose?
Avoid this pose if you have: Knee injuries (Padmasana), Spinal injuries.
How many steps are in Revolved Lotus Pose?
Revolved Lotus Pose is practiced in 10 steps. Sit in Padmasana.
Is Revolved Lotus Pose suitable for beginners?
Revolved Lotus Pose is an intermediate-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.
What conditions does Revolved Lotus Pose help with?
Revolved Lotus Pose is therapeutic for: digestive problems, flexibility, anxiety.
What poses should I do before Revolved Lotus Pose?
Prepare with: Staff Pose, Baddha Konasana, Bharadvajasana I (seated). These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.
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Build Your Own Sequence
Combine Parivrtta Padmasana with other poses