By Cayla (Mangala) Allen, Yogaratna

In the beginning of my Svaroopa^® yoga experience, I did not care for Pawanmuktasana Seated Side Stretch. My body and mind resisted it.

I learned a couple of things from this resistance. As is often true, we resist what we need. I needed what this pose offered, and the only way to receive its benefits was to surrender to it. Over time, I have learned to enjoy this pose immensely.

I prepare for Seated Side Stretch with lower spinal release poses. Next, I check the propping I need. Effective propping is essential, and it can change from day-to-day. My initial complaint with this pose was pain in the knee of my back-turned leg. Spinal tension was torquing from my spine through my hip and into my knee. Adding blankets relieved spinal tension.

At this point I was sitting on six blankets. While that can be hard on the ego, it relieved tension through my hip and knee. Then my body leaned and lengthened more easily to the side.

When I settle deeper into my seat before moving into Seated Side Stretch, my spine relaxes upright into an easy alignment. This provides the most effective results. I reach into space and feel the effortless traction of my upper arm. I feel the stability of my lower arm as I lean through its support. Finally, my spine luxuriously releases and lengthens in this side bend.

Afterwards, I sit more balanced in my seated pose. My breath is easily fuller. I am aware of energy rising within. I feel spacious and open.