UR
Beginnerstanding

Variations (1)

Urdhva Hastasana

Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend

ऊर्ध्व हस्तासन पार्श्व

Side bend variation of Urdhva Hastasana — lateral stretch of the torso.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

3

Avoid If

1
  • Spinal injuries

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Locking the knees — keep a micro-bend or engage the quadriceps
Collapsing the arches of the feet — distribute weight evenly
Holding the breath or breathing shallowly
Hunching the shoulders toward the ears
Leaning weight to one side — keep both feet equally grounded

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

5 cues
  • 1Ground firmly through all four corners of both feet
  • 2Engage the quadriceps by lifting the kneecaps
  • 3Lengthen the spine from the tailbone to the crown of the head
  • 4Draw the shoulder blades down and back
  • 5Maintain steady, even breathing throughout

Pose Details

Helps With

flexibilityback pain

Pose Type

lateral bend

Body Focus

spine

Focus Areas

flexibility

Best For

beginnersdesk workers

Yoga Styles

hathavinyasa

When to Practice

warm up

Position

standing

Target Areas

ObliquesChest

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Side bend variation of Urdhva Hastasana — lateral stretch of the torso.

How to Practice

1

1. Come to Urdhva Hastasana — arms up.

2

2. Palms together, fingers interlocked.

3

3. Exhale, bend to the right.

4

4. Stretch in the left side waist.

5

5. Hips stay centered — don't shift.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend

What is Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend?

Side bend variation of Urdhva Hastasana — lateral stretch of the torso.

What are the benefits of Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend?

Stretches side body. Opens intercostal muscles. Quick warm-up.

Who should avoid Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend?

Avoid this pose if you have: Spinal injuries.

How many steps are in Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend?

Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend is practiced in 10 steps. Come to Urdhva Hastasana — arms up.

Is Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend suitable for beginners?

Yes, Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend is a beginner-friendly pose suitable for all levels.

What conditions does Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend help with?

Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend is therapeutic for: flexibility, back pain.

What poses should I do before Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend?

Prepare with: Urdhva Hastasana, Tadasana, Shoulder Rolls, Neck Rolls, Tadasana Variation: Heel Raises. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

Build Your Own Sequence

Combine Urdhva Hastasana Side Bend with other poses