SUP Yoga Variation for Utthita Parsvakonasana (Extended Side Angle)

In this pose, the left foot lines up with the left knee and the toes hook around the back rail of the SUP board. Make sure that the knee is under the left hip, not inside or outside of the hip. Hug the outer thigh toward the inner thigh so the head of the femur bone is supported and wrapped inside the muscles and the connective tissue is all up in the hip socket (very protected and cozy).

 Then, you may place the fingertips of your right hand on the inner or outer edge of the right foot, still finding that same extension from the trunk. Extend both sides of the trunk and refrain from crunching in the side closest to the SUP board. Sweep the lifted hand down across the front and then in a complimentary diagonal as the shape of the trunk, extending and stretching the entire side body. Feel the sternum moving forward and the upper/middle back engaging to meet that lift.

Turn the light switch on in the lower belly and pelvic floor, especially if you are practicing this pose on the water. Create length along the lumbar and resist that duck tail shape that quickly throws us off balance. 

SMILE. BREATHE. FLOAT

Hold here on the board for a good 30 seconds or more if you are enjoying it. Don't forget to bring a little towel in case you get wet OR if that knee is talking to you and needs a little extra cushion. We all need a little extra cushioning sometimes.