What Does
Utthita Utkata Parsvakonasana Mean?
Utthita utkata parsvakonasana is a strengthening standing posture that is a variation on utthita parsvakonasana. The name comes from the Sanskrit, utthita, meaning “extended,” utkata, meaning “fierce,” parsva, meaning “side,” kona, meaning “angle,” and asana, meaning “pose."
In this asana, the legs are wide with the toes turned out and the knees bent, tracking over the toes. The right forearm comes to the right thigh while the left arm sweeps toward the ceiling and over the head as the body stretches to the right, as in utthita parsvakonasana. The posture is then repeated on the opposite side.
Utthita utkata parsvakonasana may be commonly referred to in English as extended fierce side angle pose.
Yogapedia Explains Utthita Utkata Parsvakonasana
In addition to its physical benefits of working the legs and side abdominal muscles, and providing a stretch for the outer hips and inner groin, utthita utkata parsvakonasana can be used to increase grounding and a sense of stability. Because of its fierce nature, it can be incorporated to add more energizing fire and heat to a yoga practice.
Traditionally, utthita utkata parsvakonasana, like utthita parsvakonasana and other postures that stretch the pelvic floor and inner groin, is associated with the root chakra (muladhara). Working with this chakra is said to help increase feelings of stability and security. This is particularly useful during unsettling or uncertain times. It can help the yogi to feel more connected with the earth and rooted in their power. To increase this sense, the focus can be taken to drawing the energy of the earth into the legs, pelvis and belly in the posture.
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