StandingBeginner
Standing Side Stretch (Left)
Parsva Urdhva Hastasana
About This Pose
This standing side bend creates length along the entire left side body from hip to fingertips, improving breathing capacity and spinal flexibility.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- 1
Stand tall with arms overhead
- 2
Interlace fingers
- 3
Lean torso to the left
- 4
Keep both feet grounded
- 5
Breathe evenly
Alignment Cues
- Keep hips level
- Lengthen both sides of waist
- Avoid twisting torso
Benefits
- Stretches side body
- Improves spinal flexibility
- Enhances balance
- Releases shoulder tension
- Improves posture
Modifications
- Bend elbows slightly
- Reduce depth of side bend
- Practice seated
Variations
- Side bend with one arm
- Dynamic side stretch
Cautions & Contraindications
Cautions
- Avoid collapsing chest
- Move within comfortable range
Avoid this pose if you have:
- Acute shoulder pain
- Severe spinal injury
Quick Facts
Primary Focus
spineSecondary Focus
shoulderscore
Suggested Hold
20 seconds
Tags
standingflexibilityside-bendlateral
