The word ‘ardha’ in Sanskrit means ‘half’, ‘urdhva’ means ‘upright’ or ‘upwards’, ‘upavistha‘ means ‘seated’ and ‘kona’ means ‘angle’. Since this is a seated pose with one leg raised upwards it is named thus.
Half Upright Seated Angle Pose strengthens the spine. Regular practice of the pose promotes balance of mind.
Other Benefits of Half Upright Seated Angle Pose
- The pose boosts functions of abdominal organs.
- It strengthens the hips.
- Practicing the pose helps to improve flexibility of hips.
- It stretches and strengthens the legs.
- The pose relieves sciatic pain.
- It is an effective yoga pose for stress relief.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Sit down on the yoga mat and place your feet against each other.
- Inhale, hold your right big toe and lift your right leg off the floor.
- Exhale as you stretch your right leg completely.
- Hold the pose for 20 seconds. Reliease the right leg and repeat the same with the left leg.
Note
Those with severe pain in shoulders, hips and knee should refrain from practicing the pose.
Those unable to hold the leg can use yoga strap.