VishvamitrasanaAdvancedstanding

Vishvamitrasana

विश्वामित्रासन

Vishvamitrasana is an advanced side balance combining hamstring split, twist, and arm support — named after sage Vishvamitra.

Anatomy Involved

Benefits

4

Avoid If

4
  • Hamstring injuries
  • Shoulder injuries
  • Wrist injuries
  • Lower back 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
Forcing the hips open beyond their current range

Teaching Cues

For yoga teachers — verbal cues to guide students

6 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
  • 6Allow the hip joints to open gradually — never force

Pose Details

Helps With

strengthflexibility

Pose Type

arm balancehip openertwist

Body Focus

full body

Focus Areas

strengthflexibilitybalance

Yoga Styles

vinyasaashtanga

When to Practice

peak pose

Position

standing

Target Areas

HamstringsObliquesDeltoidsAdductorsAbs

Practice Flow

About this Pose

Vishvamitrasana is an advanced side balance combining hamstring split, twist, and arm support — named after sage Vishvamitra.

How to Practice

1

1. Start from Lizard Pose — right foot forward.

2

2. Thread right shoulder under right knee.

3

3. Right hand on floor outside right foot.

4

4. Left arm reaches up — toward ceiling.

5

5. Left leg straight, left foot on outer edge.

5 more steps remaining

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about Vishvamitrasana

What is Vishvamitrasana?

Vishvamitrasana is an advanced side balance combining hamstring split, twist, and arm support — named after sage Vishvamitra.

What are the benefits of Vishvamitrasana?

Tests every aspect of practice. Deep hamstring opening. Shoulder and core strength. Ultimate challenge pose.

Who should avoid Vishvamitrasana?

Avoid this pose if you have: Hamstring injuries, Shoulder injuries, Wrist injuries, Lower back injuries.

How many steps are in Vishvamitrasana?

Vishvamitrasana is practiced in 10 steps. Start from Lizard Pose — right foot forward.

Is Vishvamitrasana suitable for beginners?

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

What conditions does Vishvamitrasana help with?

Vishvamitrasana is therapeutic for: strength, flexibility.

What poses should I do before Vishvamitrasana?

Prepare with: Tadasana, Adho Mukha Svanasana, Standing Forward Bend, Warrior I. These warm up the relevant muscles and joints.

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