Trikonasana, or the triangle pose, is one of the cultural asanas, and is widely practiced to keep the joints of the body flexible and healthy. Trikonasana is one of those asanas that have come down through the significant Yoga tradition in India and has been described in many contemporary Yoga Texts.

Meaning of Trikonasana
In this asana the final posture of the body resembles a triangle (trikon in Sanskrit). Hence, it is called Trikonasana.

Practice of Trikonasana

A sequential process for performing Trikonasana follows.

* Stand erect with legs together, hands by the side of the thighs.
* Keep two or two and half feet distance between two legs and raise both the hands towards each side, so to make a parallel line with shoulder.
* Slowly bend towards right side (lateral), touch the toe of the left leg with the forefinger and middle finger of the right hand and then raise the left hand towards sky. The gaze also should be up towards left hand.
* After maintaining this position for sometime, slowly return to the second position.
* Start to bend slowly lateral towards left side and touch the toe of the right leg with left hand. Keep pointing towards sky. Gaze should be towards raised right hand.
* While returning back to the original position, one should bring down the raised hand and leave the toes and stand erect with legs together.

Effects of Trikonasana
The benefits of Trikonasana include producing a soothing effect on the calves of the bent legs and on the muscles of the hand resting on the floor. The stretching of the body has good effect on the muscles and improves their functioning. This asana is equally useful for the joints of the waist.

Precautions in the Practice of Trikonasana

While practicing Trikonasana, one should not bend legs at the knees and perform the asana until the capability permits. Persons having complaints regarding their waist and the spinal column should do Trikonasana under the guidance of yoga expert. Trikonasana can be done for one minute on each side.