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Parsva Sarvangasana

पार्श्व सर्वांगासन

Parsva Sarvangasana (Side Shoulderstand) is a shoulderstand variation with both legs twisted to one side.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

4

Avoid If

5
  • Neck injuries
  • Shoulder injuries
  • High blood pressure
  • Pregnancy
  • Menstruation

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Kicking up with momentum instead of controlled engagement
Collapsing into the shoulders — push the floor away
Holding the breath — maintain steady breathing
Looking around the room — keep the gaze steady
Coming down too quickly — lower with control

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

5 cues
  • 1Engage the core to maintain stability
  • 2Press firmly through the foundation — hands, forearms, or head
  • 3Keep the body in one straight line from base to feet
  • 4Breathe steadily — do not hold the breath
  • 5Come down slowly and with control

Pose Details

Helps With

digestive problemsstrength

Pose Type

inversiontwist

Body Focus

corespine

Focus Areas

strengthbalance

Yoga Styles

iyengarashtanga

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

inverted

Modify If You Have

neck pain

Place folded blankets under shoulders.

Target Areas

ObliquesAbsDeltoidsUpper BackLower Back

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Parsva Sarvangasana (Side Shoulderstand) is a shoulderstand variation with both legs twisted to one side.

How to Practice

1

1. Come into Salamba Sarvangasana (Supported Shoulderstand).

2

2. Body fully inverted, hands supporting the back.

3

3. Core engaged.

4

4. Exhale, take both legs (together) to the right.

5

5. Twist the hips to the right as well.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Parsva Sarvangasana

What is Parsva Sarvangasana?

Parsva Sarvangasana (Side Shoulderstand) is a shoulderstand variation with both legs twisted to one side.

What are the benefits of Parsva Sarvangasana?

Twists the spine in inversion. Strengthens obliques. Stimulates abdominal organs. Builds shoulder stability.

Who should avoid Parsva Sarvangasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Neck injuries, Shoulder injuries, High blood pressure, Pregnancy, Menstruation.

How many steps are in Parsva Sarvangasana?

Parsva Sarvangasana is practiced in 10 steps. Come into Salamba Sarvangasana (Supported Shoulderstand).

Is Parsva Sarvangasana suitable for beginners?

Parsva Sarvangasana is an advanced-level pose. Beginners should practice with props or under guidance.

What props are needed for Parsva Sarvangasana?

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

What conditions does Parsva Sarvangasana help with?

Parsva Sarvangasana is therapeutic for: digestive problems, strength.

What poses should I do before Parsva Sarvangasana?

Prepare with: Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend, Forearm Stand. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

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