Forward Bend Asana · Intermediate (Level 3) · Catalog #800396

Upavistha Konasana A and B Upavistha Konasana (Ashtanga)

The wide-angle fold followed by a balance lifting both legs off the floor.

Practice Upavistha Konasana A and B (Upavistha Konasana (Ashtanga)) 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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Upavistha Konasana A and B (Upavistha Konasana (Ashtanga)) — Forward Bend Yoga Posture Illustration

Upavistha Konasana A and B (Upavistha Konasana (Ashtanga)) — Forward Bend posture targeting Inner Thighs, Hamstrings, Abs · Even ujjayi breath · Varies drishti.

Vāta: Neutral (0) Pitta: Pacifies (-1) Kapha: Pacifies (-1)
Sanskrit Name
Upavistha Konasana (Ashtanga)
Posture Family
Forward Bend
Difficulty
Intermediate (Level 3)
Recommended Hold
45 seconds
Breath Pattern
Even ujjayi
Drishti (Gaze)
Varies
Target Muscles
Inner Thighs, Hamstrings, Abs
Energy Expenditure
2.8 METs

Alignment, Breath & Drishti Cues for Upavistha Konasana A and B

Upavistha Konasana A and B (Upavistha Konasana (Ashtanga)) belongs to the Forward Bend posture family and engages the Inner Thighs, Hamstrings, Abs at an intensity of approximately 2.8 METs. The wide-angle fold followed by a balance lifting both legs off the floor.

  • Breath Rhythm: Maintain Even ujjayi throughout the 45-second hold so nervous system tone remains steady.
  • Visual Focal Point (Drishti): Direct the gaze toward Varies to quiet peripheral distraction and stabilize balance.
  • Primary Anatomical Focus: Concentrates mechanical load and mobility across Inner Thighs, Hamstrings, Abs.
  • Minimum Recommended Age: 12 years (144 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

  • Hamstring strain
  • Groin strain

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