How to do an Unbound Triangle Yoga Pose Variation

Triangle pose is one of the most popular and fundamental poses in yoga. Trying out different and new variations in every pose, including triangle, adds to the development of a well-rounded and truly unique yoga practice. By practicing triangle pose based upon the steps listed below, you will gain strength in both mind and body.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Yoga mat to practice upon (optional but recommended for practicing any yoga)

1. Stand in mountain pose at the front of your mat. Arms open and hanging by your sides but actively engaged. Chest forward and up with shoulders pulled up, back, and then down to open the chest to the sun.
2. Place you hands on your hips and take a wide, about two to three feet, step back with your right foot. Keep your hips squared to the right side of the room, left foot facing straight forward, towards the front of your mat, and right foot at a forty-five degree angle.
3. Square your stance, hips even and facing the same direction (The right side of your mat, the room). Now, extend your arms out to each side in a "T" shape so that your left arm reaches toward the front of your mat and your right arm extends to the back of your mat.
4. Turn your head to the right but keep your body squared and in the same position. Now, as if your left arm is being pulled forward, extend your left arm forward as you tilt your abdomen toward the front of the room. Make sure your hips stay in place.
5. Once your left arm is extended as far as it can reach, drop it down toward the earth but do not take hold of the ground or your foot as you might with a traditional triangle pose. Simultaneously, extend your right arm straight up to the sky. Look up.
6. Now, as you continue to look up, pendulum swing your left arm (like a pendulum or a grandfather clock) back and forth three times.
7. To complete the pose, look down as you swing both arms back to a T shape, hips still facing the side of the room. Smoothly step back towards the front of your mat and close the pose.

Tips & Warnings

• Yoga is a practice, not a competition. Work at your body's own pace.
• Never do any yoga pose that comprises your physical or mental abilities.