Parsva Sarvangasana
पार्श्व सर्वांगासन
Parsva Sarvangasana (Side Shoulderstand) is a shoulderstand variation with both legs twisted to one side.
Anatomy Involved
Benefits
- Twists the spine in inversion
- Strengthens obliques
- Stimulates abdominal organs
- Builds shoulder stability
- Full anatomical benefits — muscles, joints, organs →
Avoid If
- Neck injuries
- Shoulder injuries
- High blood pressure
- Pregnancy
- Menstruation
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
- 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
Pose Type
Body Focus
Focus Areas
Yoga Styles
When to Practice
Position
Modify If You Have
neck pain
Place folded blankets under shoulders.
Target Areas
Practice Flow
About this Pose
Parsva Sarvangasana (Side Shoulderstand) is a shoulderstand variation with both legs twisted to one side.
How to Practice
1. Come into Salamba Sarvangasana (Supported Shoulderstand).
2. Body fully inverted, hands supporting the back.
3. Core engaged.
4. Exhale, take both legs (together) to the right.
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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