Standing Asana · Elementary (Level 2) · Catalog #800017

Triangle Pose Trikonasana

Legs straight and wide, torso hinging sideways over the front leg. Lengthens the side body while the hamstrings work eccentrically.

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Triangle Pose (Trikonasana) — Standing Yoga Posture Illustration

Triangle Pose (Trikonasana) — Standing posture targeting Hamstrings, Obliques, Inner Thighs, Legs · Even ujjayi breath · Upward drishti.

Vāta: Pacifies (-1) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Trikonasana
Posture Family
Standing
Difficulty
Elementary (Level 2)
Recommended Hold
45 seconds
Breath Pattern
Even ujjayi
Drishti (Gaze)
Upward
Target Muscles
Hamstrings, Obliques, Inner Thighs, Legs
Energy Expenditure
3.5 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Triangle Pose

Triangle Pose (Trikonasana) belongs to the Standing posture family and engages the Hamstrings, Obliques, Inner Thighs, Legs at an intensity of approximately 3.5 METs. Legs straight and wide, torso hinging sideways over the front leg. Lengthens the side body while the hamstrings work eccentrically.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Even ujjayi throughout the 45-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Upward to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Hamstrings, Obliques, Inner Thighs, Legs.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 5 years (60 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: 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

  • Neck injury
  • Low blood pressure

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