Cross-beam gate pose (parighasana) is a strong side stretch that shares many qualities with the triangle pose (trikonasana). As you bend to the side, keep the chest open and facing forward. Ensure you rotate the balancing leg from the hip, and keep the kneeling leg perpendicular to the ground. If you have stiffness in the shoulder, rather than lifting and drawing the top arm close in towards to your ear, wrap it round the back of the waist instead.
Benefits:
- stretches the sides of the body
- opens the hips and chest
- strengthens the abdominal muscles
- increases stamina
