The Pyramid pose, Parswottanasana, is a standing yoga pose that benefits the lower body. The name for the pose is derived from the shape your body forms when in the pose. If you find yourself becoming stiff in the winter as cold weather settles in you will love this pose. It stretches your entire body but focuses mainly on the lower body regions and hamstrings. This is a great pose to do when you wake in the morning to relieve aches and pains.
To open the pose you must be in the downward Facing Dog asana. Once in this pose you will bring your right foot forward toward your right hand.
Next, you will move your left foot toward the front, making sure to keep your right leg straight. After moving your left foot forward it should be placed facing forward completely flat on the ground. You feet should be positioned approximately three to four feet apart for the opening of the Pyramid pose.
Slowly raise your body to a standing position. You must check to ensure your hips are aligned with the front of your yoga mat.
As you inhale you will stretch your spine. You will know that you are doing this correctly if you feel the spine begin to lengthen.
As you exhale you will begin your forward bend. On you exhale you will slowly bend forward and place your hands on the floor. If, as a beginner, you find you cannot reach the floor you may use props. A block will be the perfect prop to rest your hands on until you have reached the point to where you can stretch and reach the floor.
Each time you inhale you will stretch your spine. On the exhale you will push your body to bend forward.
Repeat this pose on the other side.
An advanced modification to the Pyramid pose will allow for increased strength. After you feel comfortable in the traditional Pyramid pose you can extend the pose by moving your hands behind your back. From here you have two options. You can grasp opposite elbows and rest your forearms on your back or you can allow your palms to meet, fingers facing upward, in a prayer stance.
The pyramid pose uses elements of both Vinyasa and Iyengar yoga. Vinyasa yoga includes the use of breathing techniques with each movement such as the inhalation as you stretch your spine in the Pyramid pose. Iyengar yoga does not focus on breathing technique but includes the use of props. The block used to help you balance and bend is considered to be a prop.
The Pyramid pose, a standing pose, benefits your lower body. It will stretch your legs and help make your leg muscles stronger. It is the perfect yoga pose to stretch your hamstrings. Your abdomen, liver, and digestive system will also benefit from Parswottanasana.
The Pyramid pose increases your circulation. This will help you feel refreshed and give you more energy. Your complexion will improve and you will feel well rested after completing the pose.
