Low Lunge Twist - Parivrtta Anjaneyasana

Low Lunge Twist - YanvaYoga

Contents

Low Lunge Twist, revolved Low Lunge or Parivrtta Anjaneyasana (PAHR-ee-VREE-tah AHN-jah-nay-AHS-uh-nuh) is an intermediate standing twist that calms the mind and lengthens the spine. The name comes from the Sanskrit, parivrtta, meaning “revolved”; anjaneya, meaning “salutation” or “praise”; and asana, meaning “posture” or “pose.”
In this pose, the yogi begins in a low lunge position with the hands in prayer position at the heart center. The torso then twists toward the lead leg, placing the opposite upper arm on the thigh while holding prayer position. The chest twists toward the sky and the gaze is upward over the shoulder.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
From Downward Facing Dog, inhale and step the right foot forward with the right knee directly over the right ankle and simultaneously lower the left knee to the floor and bring the palms to prayer at the heart center.
Step 2
Exhale, twist towards the right leg and place the left tricep on the right thigh.
Step 3
Press your palms together to help engage the arms and open more fully into the twist.
Step 4
If possible, bring your gaze upward and over your right shoulder. Stay here and take 5 rounds of breath.
Step 5
If the left knee is off the floor, lower it back down.
Step 6
Untwist from the posture and plant the hands to the floor.
Step 7
Step back into Downward Facing Dog.
Step 8
Repeat this series on the opposite side.

Benefits and Contraindications

Benefits

Develops stamina

Relieves sciatica pain

Stretches the psoas and hips

Stimulates abdominal organs

Strengthens the quadriceps and gluteus muscles

Improves balance, concentration, and core awareness

Contraindications

Hips, knees, or lower back injuries

High or low blood pressure

Spinal injuries

Photo poses in different angles

Modifications and Props for Beginners

  • If you have knee sensitivity, you can place a folded blanket or towel under your back knee to cushion it. You can also practice the pose with your back knee lifted off the ground.
  • If you find it difficult to balance in the pose, you can use two yoga blocks to support your hands. Place the blocks on either side of your front foot and rest your hands on them as you twist.
  • If you are having difficulty maintaining your balance, you can practice the pose with your back against a wall. This will help you feel more stable and grounded in the pose.
  • If you have limited mobility in your shoulders, you can use a yoga strap to help you twist more deeply. Hold the strap with both hands and draw your shoulder blades together as you twist.

Useful Tips

  • Your gaze should follow the twist of your torso. Look over your shoulder as you twist, and keep your gaze soft and relaxed.
  • To protect your lower back, engage your core muscles as you twist. This will help you maintain stability and prevent any strain on your lower back.
  • As with any yoga pose, it’s important to listen to your body and move slowly and mindfully. Don’t force yourself into the pose or push beyond your limits. Instead, breathe deeply and allow your body to open naturally over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I practice Parivrtta Anjaneyasana?

The frequency of your Parivrtta Anjaneyasana practice will depend on your individual needs and goals, as well as your level of experience and comfort with the pose. It can be incorporated into a daily or weekly yoga practice, or used as a warm-up or cool-down for other physical activities. It’s important to listen to your body and practice in a way that feels safe and sustainable for you.


Iana Varshavska
Iana Varshavska
Website administrator

A digital marketer in love with yoga and everything that goes along with it. In 2021, her huge passion for yoga led her to yoga teacher trainings. After successfully completing her studies, Iana received her Yoga Alliance U.S. certification, left the corporate IT world and devoted herself to the development of Yanva. To be able to create the best online yoga space for yoga enthusiasts like her, Iana is constantly learning and improving her skills in various aspects of yoga philosophy, anatomy and biomechanics. Since 2021, she has continued to attend various types of teacher training, including yoga therapy, gives online and offline classes, and conducts local workshops for people who want to learn more about yoga. At the moment, Iana continues to work on her personal practice, improving her hand balancing skills, as well as developing her own training programs.