Inversions-ShoulderstandBeginner

Side Plow

Parsva Halasana

Side Plow pivots the legs to one side while the toes stay grounded beyond the head, wringing the waist and deepening shoulder resilience.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    From Halasana with toes on the floor, press shoulders down and engage the core.

  2. 2

    On an exhale, walk both feet to the right until they align with the shoulder, keeping hips stacked.

  3. 3

    Maintain legs straight, inner thighs drawn together, and ribs rotating to lengthen the opposite side body.

  4. 4

    Breathe evenly for several cycles, then return through center and repeat to the left.

  5. 5

    Support the back with the hands, lift legs upright, and descend carefully when complete.

Benefits

  • Strengthens obliques and waist while increasing spinal mobility.
  • Stimulates abdominal organs and kidneys through lateral compression.
  • Builds proprioception and control for asymmetrical inversions.

Alignment Cues

  • Feet remain together and active as they shift to the side
  • Pelvis hovers centred over the shoulders without tipping
  • Neck stays neutral with chin toward sternum
  • Hands support the back or clasp to maintain lift as needed

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Uncontrolled hypertension, glaucoma, or retinal pathology
  • Recent cervical spine, shoulder, or brain injury
  • Pregnancy after first trimester unless a long-term inversion practitioner

Recommended Props

BlanketBlocksChair

Tags

CoreHalasana SeriesHipsIntermediateInversions-ShoulderstandPlough FamilySpineasana