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Hip Opener Asana · Beginner (Level 1) · Catalog #800542

Lizard Pose with Block Utthan Pristhasana (block)

Lizard Pose taken with a block under the supporting hand or beneath the seat. The prop shortens the distance to the floor so the spine can stay long instead of rounding to reach it.

Practice Lizard Pose with Block (Utthan Pristhasana (block)) 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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Lizard Pose with Block (Utthan Pristhasana (block)) — Hip Opener Yoga Posture Illustration

Lizard Pose with Block (Utthan Pristhasana (block)) — Hip Opener posture targeting Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes, Inner Thighs · Even ujjayi breath · Forward drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Neutral (0) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Utthan Pristhasana (block)
Posture Family
Hip Opener
Difficulty
Beginner (Level 1)
Recommended Hold
60 seconds
Breath Pattern
Even ujjayi
Drishti (Gaze)
Forward
Target Muscles
Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes, Inner Thighs
Energy Expenditure
2.8 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Lizard Pose with Block

Lizard Pose with Block (Utthan Pristhasana (block)) belongs to the Hip Opener posture family and engages the Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes, Inner Thighs at an intensity of approximately 2.8 METs. Lizard Pose taken with a block under the supporting hand or beneath the seat. The prop shortens the distance to the floor so the spine can stay long instead of rounding to reach it.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Even ujjayi throughout the 60-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Forward to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Hip Flexors, Hamstrings, Glutes, Inner Thighs.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 8 years (96 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: Pacifies (-1) — pair with slow nasal breathing and unhurried transitions to prevent excess mobility or dryness.
  • Pitta Effect: Neutral (0) — keep the jaw, temples, and abdomen soft when holding for 60 seconds.
  • Kapha Effect: Pacifies (-1) — link into dynamic flows or longer holds when seeking metabolic stimulation.

Contraindications & Safety Precautions

  • Knee injury
  • Hamstring strain

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