YanvaYoga > Yoga Poses > Dancing Shiva Pose

Dancing Shiva Pose - Parivrtta Hasta Padangusthasana

17.02.202327.11.2023

Dancing Shiva Pose, Revolved Hand To Big Toe or Parivrtta Hasta Padangusthasana in Sanskrit (Parivrtta = Revolved; Utthita = extended; Hasta = hand; Pada = foot, Angusta = big toe; Asana = Pose) is an advanced yoga pose, and the journey to getting it can be incredibly empowering. In its full expression, you stand on one leg while extending the other leg parallel to the floor; holding on the big toe of the lifted leg with the opposite arm, you twist and look behind you, opening your arm.

Parivrtta Hasta Padangusthasana is an excellent posture to explore your balance while strengthening your entire standing leg, stretching the hamstrings and IT band of your lifted leg, opening your chest, and building focus and stamina.

Pose Detail

Difficulty: Advanced, Intermediate
By Type: Balancing Yoga Poses, Chest Opening Yoga Poses, Flexibility Yoga Poses, Hip Opening Yoga Poses, Strengthening Yoga Poses
Body Position: Standing Yoga Poses, Twist Yoga Poses
By Benefit: Yoga Poses For Digestion, Yoga Poses For Stress Relief

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1

Stand in mountain pose and allow your weight to shift into the standing left leg.

Step 2

Lift the right leg and hold the knee with the left hand.

Step 3

Simultaneously, twist into the leg while opening the right arm toward the back.

Step 4

Shift your gaze toward your right thumb.

Step 5

If your right leg allows it, let your left hand reach your right foot.

Step 6

As you breathe out, twist a bit deeper.

Step 7

Stay for five breaths before switching sides.

Benefits and Contraindications

Benefits

Opens the hips

Energizes the body and mind

Tones abdominal organs and improves digestion

Strengthens the legs and core

Stretches and improves spinal flexibility

Improves balance

Improves mental focus

Calms the mind

Contraindications

Hip pathologies

Low back pathologies

Limited hip range of motion

Diarrhea

Ankle, knee, or shoulder injury

Photo poses in different angles

Modifications, Props and Tips For Beginners

Place a strap around your lifted foot to create more space.
Reach your back hand to a wall for extra support.
Keep your gaze forward or to the side to help with balance.
Keep your back hand on your hip for added stability.

Variation

Dancing Shiva Pose on the floor

If you’re looking for a pose that embodies a dancing or dynamic quality and can be done on the floor, you might consider incorporating elements of movement and expression into your practice.