Revolved Downward-Facing Dog Pose (Parivrtta Adho Mukha Svanasana)
Revolved Downward-Facing Dog Pose, or Parivrtta Adho Mukha Svanasana (pah-reev-RIT-tah AH-doh MOO-kah shvah-NAH-sah-nah), is an invigorating and deepening variation of the foundational Downward-Facing Dog Pose. In Sanskrit, "Parivrtta" means "revolved" or "twisted," "Adho" means "downward," "Mukha" means "face," and "Svanasana" means "dog pose." This intermediate inversion offers a profound stretch and a refreshing twist, stimulating both body and mind.
If you're looking to explore more challenging poses or find inspiration for your practice, a Revolved Downward-Facing Dog Pose generator could offer creative sequences incorporating this dynamic twist.
How to Practice Revolved Downward-Facing Dog Pose
This pose builds upon the strength and alignment established in traditional Downward-Facing Dog. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
- Begin in Downward-Facing Dog Pose, ensuring your hands are shoulder-width apart and feet are hip-width apart, with your hips pushing back and up.
- Inhale deeply.
- As you exhale, draw your left hand off the mat and reach it back to grasp your right ankle or shin. Maintain the strong foundation in your right hand and both feet.
- Initiate a gentle twist from your core, rotating your torso to the right. Gaze under your right armpit towards the ceiling.
- Hold this position for several breaths, feeling the deep stretch in your hamstrings and the invigorating twist through your spine and abdomen.
- Inhale to release your left hand and return to Downward-Facing Dog Pose.
- Exhale and repeat on the other side, bringing your right hand to your left ankle or shin and twisting to the left.
- Hold for an equal duration, then inhale to return to Downward-Facing Dog.
Benefits of Revolved Downward-Facing Dog Pose
This dynamic twist offers numerous physical and energetic benefits:
- Deep Hamstring and Calf Stretch: It provides an intensified stretch for the hamstrings and calves, improving flexibility in the back of the legs.
- Spinal Flexibility and Detoxification: The twisting action helps to lubricate the spine and can aid in stimulating the abdominal organs, promoting detoxification and improving digestion.
- Energizes and Relieves Fatigue: As an inversion and a twist, this pose can help to increase blood flow to the head, combating fatigue and leaving you feeling more energized. It's often included in a yoga generator for morning routines.
- Stress and Headache Relief: The combination of inversion and mindful breathing can calm the nervous system, helping to alleviate stress and reduce tension headaches.
- Core Strengthening: Engaging the core muscles to maintain balance and deepen the twist strengthens the abdominal and oblique muscles.
- Improved Balance: Practicing this one-handed variation enhances stability and coordination.
Cautions and Contraindications
While beneficial, Revolved Downward-Facing Dog Pose should be approached with awareness:
- Avoid this pose if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure, as inversions can temporarily increase blood pressure.
- Individuals with wrist or shoulder injuries should exercise caution or avoid the pose, as significant weight is placed on one arm.
- Those with spinal injuries or recent abdominal surgery should consult a healthcare professional or an experienced yoga instructor before attempting.
Always listen to your body and modify the pose as needed. If you're unsure about modifications, a pose generator tool might suggest alternatives tailored to your needs.
Pose Details
| Sanskrit Name: | Parivrtta Adho Mukha Svanasana |
| Pronunciation: | pah-reev-RIT-tah AH-doh MOO-kah shvah-NAH-sah-nah |
| Pose Level: | Intermediate |
| Drishti: | Nasagre (Tip of the nose) |
| Pose Type: | Balancing, Forward Bends, Inversions, Twists |











