Eka Pada Parsva Bakasana

What Does Eka Pada Parsva Bakasana Mean?

Eka pada parsva bakasana is an advanced arm-balancing asana that strengthens the arms and shoulders, stretches the hamstrings and improves concentration. The name comes from the Sanskrit, eka, meaning “one”; pada, meaning “foot” or “leg”; parsva, meaning “side”; bak, meaning “crane”; and asana, meaning “posture” or “pose.”

This asana is a variation of eka pada bakasana with a different leg position. From a squatting position, the hands are placed on the ground and the hips are lifted with one leg extended straight back and one leg in ardha padmasana (foot atop the opposite thigh).

Eka pada parsva bakasana is also known in English as one-legged side crane pose.

Yogapedia Explains Eka Pada Parsva Bakasana

Traditionally, eka pada parsva bakasana is believed to open a number of chakras, most notably, the muladhara (root) and sahasrara (crown) chakras. Opening the muladhara creates a sense of grounding, security and stability. It also sets the foundation for activating the other chakras. Opening sahasrara through eka pada parsva bakasana provides a connection to the universe and a oneness with the Divine. It also creates ego-free serenity, inner peace and joy.

Eka pada parsva bakasana is thought to offer the following additional benefits:

• Builds a sense of balance and coordination
• Stabilizes the nervous system
• Improves focus
• Encourages introspection and mindfulness
• Boosts confidence

Eka pada parsva bakasana is a challenging posture that requires upper body strength and balance. It should only be attempted after mastering bakasana and eka pada bakasana.