What They Never Tell You About Side Angle Pose

Have you ever thought about the intent of side angle pose (parsvakonasana)? Are you ready to hear a fresh perspective that will take your awareness to the next level?

In my opinion, side angle pose is the best of two worlds: the hip opening, leg strengthening element of warrior two combined with the side strengthening and side lengthening benefit of triangle pose.

But here's the thing, most people miss these wonderful benefits because their focus is to get their hand to the floor... at all costs. The result? A weird sort of front bend that's hard to breathe in. But before I say anymore, check out this clip...

                    Yoga expert and author, Brian Friedman demonstrates a progression for side angle pose.

I choose the modified version for my system of yoga (Functional Yoga Instruction), personal clients, as well as my led classes because I feel you get the most return for your investment. In other words, you get just as much (if not more) from the most fundamental version than if you decide to progress into the deeper options.

As a smart yoga practitioner, you can see the value of embracing the fundamentals and taking the time to truly develop a deep inner awareness of what is going on during your practice. 

Want more? Check out what these fine folks have to say about their yoga experience with FYI:

Highly Recommended!
5/5 stars "I became interested in yoga when I learned it can help with some stiffness and a bit of arthritis I was having. As a beginner, I purchased Brian Friedman's Functional Yoga Instruction book to help me understand the poses. This book helps you learn how to do a pose correctly, comfortably and really make it count. Brian stresses perfect alignment with every move you make. His explanations and photos stay with me in my head throughout my entire day helping me to stay aligned in all my daily activities. When having correct posture and movement you feel stronger, notice less pain and have more energy. I am starting to feel the healing benefits of yoga on my body and mind. Who would have thought it could feel so good just keeping your body aligned throughout the day?

Great!
5/5 stars "Brian is a fabulous instructor. I took his workshop and learned so much, even after my 7 years of experience. His book is a mirror of his great teaching.

Don't hesitate. Get your copy now!

A Blueprint for Good Technique, Reverse Triangle

This may be a new perspective on an old favorite of yogis everywhere. The name of the posture says it all, REVERSE triangle. In my opinion, the intent of this classic pose is a side bend. Be sure to watch this clip to get the most bang for your buck.

By using the hips correctly the following is achieved:

• Injury Prevention. Movement expert, Gray Cook has said that lack of symmetry can lead to injury.
• Resilience. Fitness expert, Steve Maxwell, said that lateral flexion is one of the first ranges of motion we lose as we age.
• Tone and Lengthen the Midsection. By contracting one side of the lateral chain (toning) the opposite side of the lateral chain must release (lengthen).

There you have it, a simple technique that packs quite  punch (in a kind and loving yogic way).

All the best, Brian

Improve Your Triangle Pose

Utthita Trikonasana (Extended Triangle Pose) is probably the most recognized posture in all of yoga. According to Yoga Journal.com, the benefits include:

"Stretches and strengthens the thighs, knees, and ankles
Stretches the hips, groins, hamstrings, and calves; shoulders, chest, and spine
Stimulates the abdominal organs
Helps relieve stress
Improves digestion
Helps relieve the symptoms of menopause
Relieves backache, especially through second trimester of pregnancy
Therapeutic for anxiety, flat feet, infertility, neck pain, osteoporosis, and sciatica"

In this video clip, I demonstrate a great way to "true up" your triangle pose by using a wall.

Enjoy!

The Greatest Yoga Resources, Pt 2

Which Yoga Books Are Worth It?

Before we get to the books, be sure to check out my recommendations for yoga DVDs. Believe me, those DVDs are game changers. As an aside, and at the behest of my students, I've added another must have title.

As a yoga teacher and studio owner, I am often asked for recommendations in yoga books. My goal is to share with you some titles that have had the most positive influence on me as an instructor and I was developing my own method of yoga, Functional Yoga Instruction.

My Go To Yoga Books...

I used to have mixed feelings about Dr. Long's series. At first I was a little upset because someone else beat me to the punch. Dr. Long is the first yoga person to capture so many of my ideas on paper. Then a funny thing happened... I realized that Dr. Long saved me a lot of time and trouble. Now, instead of writing all of this stuff down, I can happily refer people to his awesome material. 

Begin with these two as there is a life's worth of study here. 

When you've mastered the contents contained within these pages, check out Dr. Long's Mat Companion Series books.



Leslie Kaminoff's classic is a great introduction to discovering the intent of each yoga pose.



I'm adding this recommendation here to proactively deflect potential emailing...

The truth of the matter is: Functional Yoga Instruction is catching on. Inhale Yoga Studio in Athens, Ohio has made the FYI manual mandatory reading for their 200 Hour Yoga Alliance Teacher Training.

My guarantee: you will never think of yoga the same way after reading Functional Yoga Instruction.



These recommendations are enough to transform anyone's yoga practice forever. Click on the links, invest in your yoga practice, and let me know what you think.


All the best, Brian