Trikonasana / Triangle Pose

A large glass, triangular shaped building.

Without needing to pay too much attention, they are noticeable everywhere. Many are easily visible, though others might be harder to identify. Their geometric shape provides the endurance and stability of myriad structures, including truss bridges, the Eiffel Tower, and of course, The Great Pyramid. In Asana, this description evokes trikonasana, fittingly known as triangle pose.

With two examples of trikonasana, we can understand how a strong foundation enables the pose to unfold. In both versions, a stable base is established, allowing for an inclined extension of the spine while maintaining a broad chest and back. The dynamic sensation of the elongated underarm and side rib area can become habit-forming.

 Angelique Lele seated in her manual wheelchair on a boat, wearing a gray jumpsuit, holding a colorful scarf in both hands. She is grounding her hand on a bench next to her and extending the opposite arm.  She is gazing at her extended hand. A view of water behind her.

Seated Trikonasana: Sit on a chair, hit down through the feet and sit bones to extend up. Inhale and lift the arms out to the sides and feel the length along the side bodies. Lean towards the right hip, extend the right palm to the side and place it on a secure surface. Continue pressing through the outstretched palm and securely tuck the shoulder blades. Extend the opposite arm away from the torso, both arms in one long line. Notice the expanse around the periphery of the body. Play around with grounding the feet, sit bones, and palm to appreciate why the triangle is considered such a strong shape. Slowly come out of the pose as you went into it, and repeat on the other side.

 

 

Molly Bachman wearing all back, standing with wide legs, one hand grounded onto two blocks on the floor next to her, the opposite hand extended to the ceiling. She is gazing at her extended hand. A window and indoor plant in view behind herStanding Trikonasana: From Tadasana, jump feet and arms wide apart. Ground down through the feet to extend up. Turn the right foot out and the left foot slightly inward. With outstretched arms, bend at the hip and extend the torso in the direction of the right foot. Secure the right palm on a block just outside of the right leg. Extend the other arm above that shoulder, broadening the shoulder blades. Direct the tailbone towards the anchored left heel. Staying long in the spine, continue the extension of the side bodies with a relaxed breath. Come out of the pose as you went into it, repeat on the other side