Twist Asana · Beginner (Level 1) · Catalog #800304

Dynamic Spinal Twist Meru Wakrasana

Seated with legs extended, twisting side to side to reach the opposite foot. A warming spinal rotation.

Practice Dynamic Spinal Twist (Meru Wakrasana) with Illustrated Cues & Breath Timer Open this posture in Ayurveda & Asana Yoga on iPhone & iPad to build custom dosha sequences and track MET energy burn.
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Dynamic Spinal Twist (Meru Wakrasana) — Twist Yoga Posture Illustration

Dynamic Spinal Twist (Meru Wakrasana) — Twist posture targeting Obliques, Lower Back · With the breath breath · Over shoulder drishti.

Vāta: Neutral (0) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Meru Wakrasana
Posture Family
Twist
Difficulty
Beginner (Level 1)
Recommended Hold
45 seconds
Breath Pattern
With the breath
Drishti (Gaze)
Over shoulder
Target Muscles
Obliques, Lower Back
Energy Expenditure
2.4 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Dynamic Spinal Twist

Dynamic Spinal Twist (Meru Wakrasana) belongs to the Twist posture family and engages the Obliques, Lower Back at an intensity of approximately 2.4 METs. Seated with legs extended, twisting side to side to reach the opposite foot. A warming spinal rotation.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain With the breath throughout the 45-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Over shoulder to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Obliques, Lower Back.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 3 years (36 months).

Ayurvedic Dosha Profile (Vāta, Pitta & Kapha)

In Ayurvedic asana sequencing (Dosha Provenance: modern-synthesis), every posture shifts Vata, Pitta, and Kapha according to its mechanical compression, heat generation, and grounding stability:

  • Vāta Effect: Neutral (0) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Pacifies (-1) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 45 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Disc injury

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