Dwikonasana
double angle pose
Instructions
Stand erect with the feet 30 cm apart.
Extend the arms behind the back and interlock the fingers. This is the starting position.
Bend forward from the hips so that the back and face are parallel with the floor.
Raise the arms behind the back as high as possible without strain. The arms act as a lever and accentuate the stretch given to the shoulders and chest.
Remain in the final position for a short time, lower the arms to the back, and then return to the upright position. Repeat up to 10 times.
Variation
Interlock the fingers and turn the palms of the hands outwards.
Breathing
Inhale while standing erect.
Exhale while bending forward.
Inhale while raising the arms.
Exhale while lowering the arms.
Inhale while returning to the upright position.
Awareness
Physical – on the stretch of the arms, shoulders and upper back, on keeping the back straight and parallel to the floor,
and on synchronizing the movement with the breath.
Spiritual – on anahata chakra.
Benefits
This asana strengthens the muscles between the upper spine and the shoulder blades, and develops the chest and neck. It is especially good for young, growing bodies.
Notes
The Sanskrit word dwi means ‘two’ and kona means ‘angle’. Therefore, this is the ‘double angle’ pose.