Fallen Triangle
PATITA - FALLEN
TRI - THREE
KONA - ANGLE
ASANA - POSE
Fallen Triangle pose is an asymmetrical arm balance. There are not many poses which fall into this category. It’s a combination of Side Plank pose (Vasisthasana) and Triangle (Trikonasana). Regular practice of Fallen Triangle will help your strength and encourage creativity and focus.
You will be balancing on one arm/hand so only practice this pose if you are free from injury in your arms and shoulders.
How to get into the pose:
From Downward Facing Dog, inhale and lift your right leg into Three Leg Dog
On an exhale draw your shoulders forward over the wrists and bring your right knee towards your left elbow
Kick your right foot off the mat to the left side
Drop your right heel to the mat (as if in Triangle pose)
Lightly draw in your abdominal muscles to support the lower back.
Reach your left hand up to the sky and send all your energy upwards. Gaze at your left hand if that feels ok.
Breathe deeply.
To exit the pose, exhale your left hand to the mat and inhale to take your right leg back into Three Leg Dog
Repeat with the left leg
Remember to create the balance between effort and ease in your pose.
How long to stay in the pose:
Up to five breaths
Gaze (Drishti)
Fingers
Modifications you can take to make this pose more accessible:
Perform the version from High Plank (see video below for demonstration) with both hands on the mat
Challenges:
Bring your lifted leg up off the mat
Bring your lifted foot forwards towards the top of the mat
Contraindications / Cautions:
Do not practice Fallen Triangle if you have an ongoing or recent injury to your wrist, elbow or shoulder