Inversions


Parshva Halasana (Side Plough Pose)

Side Plough Ppose
Level: Intermediate

Parshva = side of the body, or flank. Hala = a plough.

If you find the body is tight and you are unable to bring the feet to the floor, do the pose with the feet on bolsters, blocks, or even chairs.

Organizing the Pose


  1. Come into the pose from Supta Konasana (Reclined Angle Pose).
  2. Slide the left foot over to meet the right.
  3. Keep the shoulders squared and the hips level.
  4. Draw the right thigh in as you reach the left thigh away to square off the hips.
  5. Hold this pose for 20 to 30 seconds.
  6. Walk the feet apart back to Supta Konasana and repeat on the other side.
  7. Either continue on with other Halasana (Plough Pose) or Salamba Sarvangasana (Shoulder Stand) variations, or exhale and come down, using the arms to control yourself as you roll down through the back

Practice Points


  • Roll the tailbone towards the heels.
  • Fully extend the legs.
  • Widen the collarbones and shoulder blades.
  • Broaden and lift the back ribs.
  • Soften the neck and throat.