top of page
Search

Revolved Head to Knee Pose (Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana)

Elisha in Revolved Head to Knee Pose (Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana), one knee bent, torso arcing sideways over the extended leg
Side bend, twist, and reach into spaciousness.

Revolved Head to Knee Pose is a beautiful seated side bend that stretches the side body, inner thigh of the extended leg, and opens the chest. Unlike a standard forward fold, the rotation here creates a lateral stretch along the entire flank, from hip to fingertips, that feels deeply releasing, especially for those who hold tension in their sides and ribs.


How to Practice Revolved Head to Knee Pose (Parivrtta Janu Sirsasana)

  1. Sit with your legs wide apart in a V-shape.

  2. Bend your left knee and bring your left foot to your inner right thigh.

  3. Turn your torso slightly toward your right leg.

  4. On an inhale, reach your right arm down toward your right foot.

  5. Extend your left arm overhead and arc it toward your right foot, creating a long side stretch.

  6. Rotate your chest open toward the ceiling.

  7. Gaze up toward the ceiling or forward.

  8. Hold for 5-8 breaths, then switch sides.


Modifications & Variations

  • Hold a strap: If you can't reach your foot, loop a strap around it and hold the strap with both hands.

  • Less arc: Keep a more neutral spine if the lateral stretch is too intense, even a subtle side bend creates benefit.

  • Sit on a blanket: Elevating your hips makes it easier to rotate the pelvis and lengthen the spine before folding.


Bring Your Practice to Life


A large group of yoga students practicing on the grass in Golden Gate Park on a sunny day, with trees and a blue sky in the background

Free Yoga in Golden Gate Park


Every summer I teach free outdoor classes at the Whale's Tail in Golden Gate Park, June through October. Bring your mat, bring a friend, and meet me on the grass.


Elisha seated in meditation on an open-air wooden yoga shala, surrounded by tall wooden posts, with a misty lake and mountain range visible in the background at sunrise

Yoga Retreats Around the World


Ready to go deeper? I lead small-group retreats in some of the most beautiful places on earth. A few days of practice, good food, and real rest can change everything.



Comments

bottom of page