Side Plank: Strengthen and Balance

At One Big Heart Yoga Studio, we aim to support your journey toward enhanced mental and physical wellness through the practice of yoga. In this blog post, we’ll delve into the Side Plank Pose, a posture that promotes strength, balance, and endurance. We’ll uncover what the pose is, why it’s beneficial, and how to practice it correctly.

What is Side Plank Pose?

Side Plank Pose, or Vasisthasana, is a powerful arm-balancing pose that requires and builds strength in the core and upper body. It involves supporting your body weight on one arm and the edge of one foot, while the other arm extends upward, creating a line of energy from the grounded hand to the lifted fingertips.

Why is Side Plank Pose important?

1. Builds strength: Side Plank is a strength-building pose, targeting the arms, wrists, and entire core. It also strengthens the legs and glutes.
2. Enhances balance: The pose encourages balance and stability, cultivating body awareness and focus.
3. Promotes endurance: Holding Side Plank requires endurance, both physical and mental, building your capacity to stay with challenges.
4. Improves alignment: Practicing Side Plank can improve your understanding of alignment and symmetry in your body.

How to practice Side Plank Pose:

1. Begin in Plank Pose, with your wrists under your shoulders and your body in a straight line from head to heels.
2. Shift onto the outer edge of your right foot, stacking your left foot on top of the right.
3. Transfer your weight onto your right hand, extending your left hand towards the sky.
4. Engage your core and lift your hips, maintaining a straight line through your body.
5. If comfortable, turn your gaze to look up towards your left hand.
6. Hold for 5-10 breaths or as long as you feel comfortable.
7. To exit the pose, look down to the mat and return to Plank Pose, then rest in Child’s Pose. Repeat on the other side.

Incorporating Side Plank Pose into your yoga practice can help build strength, improve balance, and enhance endurance. At One Big Heart Yoga Studio, we are dedicated to helping you explore these benefits through expert guidance and a supportive community. Join us today and embrace the transformative power of yoga in your life.