Parivrtta anjaneyasana (par-ee-VRT-tah Aan-jha-nay-AHS-anna) is a twisted variation of lunge pose with several modifications and variations that develops stamina while improving your balance.
Sanskrit:
- Parivrtta = to turn around, revolve
- Anjaneya = salutation
- Asana = pose
Philosophy & Origin:
Parivrtta anjaneyasana is believed to activate the third chakra, or manipura. This chakra is the body’s center of energy and vitality. It is a source of confidence, internal strength, and courage, and activating the manipura chakra through this pose can shield against fear and insecurity.
Physical Benefits:
- Strengthens the quadriceps and gluteus muscles.
- Improves digestion and elimination.
- Stretches the psoas and hips.
- Develops stamina and endurance in your thighs
Energetic Benefits:
- Activates manipura chakra.
- Improves your balance, concentration and core awareness
Mudra: Anjali Mudra
This mudra is also known as the prayer mudra. Bring both hands together by pressing the palms together firmly and evenly with fingertips and thumbs pointing towards the sky.
Mantra:
Shanti Mantra
This mantra is a chant for peace and is used to call for and usher peace into our daily lives.
“sarvesham svastir bhavatu sarvesham shantir bhavatu sarvesham purnam bhavatu sarvesham mangalam bhavatu” translates to “May there be well-being for all, May there be peace for all. May there be wholeness for all, May there be happiness for all.”
Preparatory Poses:
- Revolved triangle pose | Parivrtta trikonasana
- Revolved chair pose | Parivrtta utkatasana
Adjustments/Modifications:
- Keep the eye gaze downwards or forward.
- Lower your back knee down to the ground rather than lifting.
- Parivrtta parsvakonasana: the opposite arm rests on the lead leg or reaches to the ground, while the other arm extends overhead, creating a twist through the core of the body.
Step-By-Step:
- Begin in a lunge with your right foot forward. Bring your palms together at heart center.
- With your left knee lifted, push your left heel back and reach the crown of your head forwards to lengthen your spine and side body.
- On an exhale, twist towards your right leg to place your left tricep on your right thigh. Bring your torso as close to your leg as possible.
- Press your palms together to engage your arms. Turn your chest in the direction of the ceiling and shift your gaze upwards over your right shoulder.
- Stay here, or extend your left fingertips down to the ground on the outside of your right leg, and reach your right fingertips up the ceiling.
- Stay for up to one minute. To release the pose, unwind and place your hands down on the mat, then step back to table top or down dog. Repeat on the other side.
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