Ardha Padma Parsva Sarvangasana

Last Updated: January 2, 2018

Definition - What does Ardha Padma Parsva Sarvangasana mean?

Ardha padma parsva sarvangasana is an advanced inversion that blends a side shoulder stand (parsva sarvangasana) with half lotus pose (ardha padmasana) for a posture that requires balance, flexibility and core strength. From sarvangasana, the legs then twist to one side into parsva sarvangasana. The leg on the side toward which the body has twisted folds with the ankle resting atop the thigh of the extended leg.

The name of this asana comes from the Sanskrit ardha, meaning “half”; padma, meaning “lotus”; parsva, meaning “side”; sarva, meaning “all” or “complete”; anga, meaning “limb”; and asana, which means “pose” or “posture.” In English, it is known as half lotus side shoulder stand pose.

Ardha Padma Parsva Sarvangasana

Yogapedia explains Ardha Padma Parsva Sarvangasana

In the full expression of the pose, the arm on the weighted side of the body supports the hip, as in salamba sarvangasana (supported shoulder stand), while the other arm rests extended on the ground. Alternately, the body weight can lean away from the legs with the arm supporting the opposite hip.

In addition to its physical benefits, ardha padma parsva sarvangasana:

  • Improves focus
  • Calms the mind and reduce fatigue
  • Eases anxiety and mild depression

The pose is also believed to balance the vishuddha (throat) chakra, which is associated with speech, communication and authentic expression. Clearing vishuddha allows the yogi to experience a higher truth.




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