Restorative Poses


Parshva Parvatasana (Side Mountain Pose)

Side Mountain Pose over a bolster
Level: All Levels

Parshva = side. Parvata = mountain

As with Parshva Bharadwajasana (Side Bharadwaja’s Pose), this pose is extremely rejuvenating. The trunk is able to elongate a little more here than in Parshva Bharadwajasana.

Organizing the pose

• Sit in Dandasana (Staff Pose) with a bolster or folded blankets on the floor against the right hip, pointing out perpendicular to the body.
• Bend the left leg and turn to face the bolster.
• Roll over onto the outer edge of the right leg.
• As you inhale, lengthen the trunk out along the bolster, as you exhale, turn to the right.
• Lay out over the bolster with the head turned to either side.
• Hold this position for 2-5 minutes.
• Lift up and repeat on the other side.

Practice Points

• Soften and surrender to the shape of the pose.
• Allow the back body to receive the breath.