One Leg Folded Forward Bend Pose - Trianga Mukhaikapada Paschimottanasana

One Leg Folded Forward Bend Pose - YanvaYoga

Contents

One Leg Folded Forward Bend Pose or Trianga Mukhaikapada Paschimottanasana is a seated forward bend that stretches the back of the body and calms the mind. The name comes from several Sanskrit words:

  • Triang, meaning “three limbs”;
  • Mukha, meaning “face”;
  • Eka, meaning “one”;
  • Pada, meaning “foot”;
  • Paschima, meaning “west” or “back of the body”;
  • Uttana, meaning “intense stretch”;
  • Asana, meaning “posture” or “pose.”

From Dandasana (Staff Pose), one leg is folded back at the knee so it rests along the corresponding hip, while the other leg remains straight. The torso then folds at the hips as the arms reach for the extended foot. This yoga asana must be done on an empty stomach, preferably in the morning or at least 4 hours after a heavy meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1
Sit in Dandasana
Step 2
Bend the right knee and place the right foot by the side of the right hip joint in Ardha Virasana. Keep the toes pointing back.
Step 3
Learn to balance in this position. Keep the extended leg stretched with toes pointed forward.
Step 4
Hold the left foot with both the palms and if possible, extend the trunk forward and hook the wrists.
Step 5
Join the knees exhale and bend forward. Learn to keep the trunk in the centre. Avoid the tilt.
Step 6
Rest the forehead, nose, lips, then the chin on the left knee by widening the elbows and extending the torso.
Step 7
Inhale raise the head and the torso. Release the hands and come back to upright. Straighten the right leg into Dandasana and Repeat on the other side.

Benefits and Contraindications

Benefits

Regulates the digestion system

Stimulates and tones the abdominal organs

Makes the spine more flexible

Calms the mind

Opens the hips

Improves the flexibility in the hamstrings, hips and knee joint

Restores the body from long travel

Contraindications

Injury or surgery to the back, hips, ankles, shoulders, knees, neck , spine, and the arms

Weak digestive system or any problem with the abdominal organs

Hypertension

Migraine

Pregnancy after 3rd trimester

Photo poses in different angles

Modifications and Props For Beginners

People with tight hip joints can practice this pose with props.

  • Sit on a yoga block to perform the asana using your sit bones. This helps in maintaining balance with one folded leg and prevents the tilting of the upper body to one side.
  • Wrapping a strap around the soles of the stretched foot makes the leg approachable. People who are unable to reach their foot while bending forward can find the yoga strap handy. They can hold the ends of the strap rather than holding the feet or hooking the wrist around the foot.
  • You can also use a chair to ease the pose a bit. Keep a chair in front of you and stretch the leg under it. While bending forward you can rest your arms and head on the chair. This makes forward bending less challenging.

Useful Tips

Here are some useful tips that can make the practice of Trianga Mukhaikapada Paschimottanasana easier and more comfortable.

  • Warm-up: It’s important to warm up your body before attempting this pose. You can do some gentle stretches and movements to prepare your muscles and joints.
  • Start slow: Begin by bending your left leg and bringing the sole of your left foot to your inner right thigh. Slowly bend forward, reaching your hands towards your right foot. Hold for a few breaths, then repeat on the other side.
  • Engage your core: As you fold forward, engage your core muscles by drawing your navel towards your spine. This will help you maintain balance and stability in the pose.
  • Keep your spine straight: Avoid rounding your back as you fold forward. Instead, lengthen your spine and reach your chest forward.
  • Use props: If you’re not able to reach your foot comfortably, use a strap or a block to help you. You can loop the strap around your foot and hold onto the ends, or place a block under your hands to bring the floor closer to you.
  • Breathe deeply: Take slow, deep breaths as you hold the pose. This will help you relax and release tension in your body.
  • Don’t force it: If you feel any pain or discomfort, back off the pose and modify as needed. It’s better to take it slowly and listen to your body than to push yourself too hard and risk injury.

Remember to be patient and consistent with your practice. With time and practice, you’ll gradually deepen your stretch and feel more comfortable in the pose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Variations

  • One Leg Folded Forward Bend With Strap
  • Seated Forward Bend Pose Wheel
  • Standing One Leg Folded Forward Bend

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.