Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
One-Legged Belly Twist Mean?
One-legged belly twist is a basic reclining posture that provides a strong stretch for the hips and waist.
From a supine position, one leg is bent and drawn into the chest while the other remains extended. The bent leg then drops to the opposite side and straightens, extending perpendicular to the other leg. The gaze is in the opposite direction of the twist. For a less intense stretch, the leg that drops to the side can remain bent.
In Sanskrit, this pose is called eka pada jathara parivartanasana.
Yogapedia Explains One-Legged Belly Twist
Like other twisting poses, one-legged belly twist is believed to stretch and lengthen the spine while wringing impurities from the body and massaging the internal organs. In addition to stretching the hips and core muscles, one-legged belly twist is believed to:
- Stretch the shoulders, lower back, quadriceps, calves and hamstrings
- Improve spinal alignment and posture
- Open the shoulders and lungs
- Reduce back pain
- Ease stress, depression and anxiety
- Enhance circulation
- Improve digestion
Yogis who suffer from back, knee or hip injuries should skip this pose or practice it only with a medical professional's approval and the guidance of a skilled instructor. Those with neck injuries should direct the gaze toward the sky.
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Synonyms
One-Legged Revolved Belly Pose
One Leg Revolved Belly Yoga Pose