Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Upavistha Konasana Mean?
Upavistha konasana is a seated forward bend that requires flexibility. The term comes from the Sanskrit upavistha, meaning “seated” or “sitting,” kona, meaning “angle,” and asana, meaning “pose” or “posture.”
From a seated position, the legs are spread wide and the upper body folds forward. In addition to a range of physical benefits, this pose calms the mind and the nervous system.
The common English name for upavistha konasana is wide angle seated forward bend. It is also sometimes referred to as simply seated angle pose.
Yogapedia Explains Upavistha Konasana
Traditionally, upavistha konasana is thought to activate the second chakra, svadisthana, thereby opening the center of creativity, pleasure and enjoyment. Practicing this pose opens the mind to new possibilities while encouraging self-acceptance. As with other forward bends, upavistha konasana quiets the mind.
Upavistha konasana is a foundational pose in many schools of yoga and part of the primary series of Ashtanga yoga. It prepares the body for other seated forward bends and twists, as well as for the wide-legged standing asanas. Often performed following this asana is the related pose, urdhva upavistha konasana (upward wide angle seated forward bend), in which the legs are lifted off the ground.
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