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Reclining Vishnu Pose

Supta Trivikramasana

Reclining three-stride pose stretches one leg behind the head while the other roots, creating a supine split that steadies the mind.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    Lie supine with both legs extended and arms alongside the body.

  2. 2

    Inhale, raise the right leg to vertical, and clasp the heel or ankle with interlaced fingers.

  3. 3

    Exhale, draw the right leg behind the head until the big toe descends toward the floor beside the ear.

  4. 4

    Keep the left leg grounded and broaden the collarbones as you lengthen the spine on the mat.

  5. 5

    Breathe evenly, release the heel with control, and repeat on the second side.

Benefits

  • Maximizes posterior-chain length to prevent and relieve hernia and sciatic discomfort.
  • Massages abdominal organs and tones the pelvic floor.
  • Demands inward focus, quieting the senses through breath control.

Alignment Cues

  • Press the sacrum and back ribs into the mat.
  • Engage the low belly to protect the lumbar spine.
  • Straighten the lifted leg before guiding the toe toward the floor.
  • Let the elbows widen only enough to keep the heel secure.

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Lumbar disc pathology or sacroiliac instability
  • Hamstring tear or acute sciatic pain
  • Pregnancy beyond the first trimester

Recommended Props

StrapBlanketBolster

Tags

AdvancedHipsIntense StretchesLegsSpineSplits and Deep Hip Openingasana