fallen triangle

A colorful animated illustration of a girl with purple hair, wearing a blue top, orange pants, and a matching orange and blue headband, raising her arm in a waving gesture.

Patita Trikonasana

asymmetrical arm balance

PATITA - FALLEN
TRI - THREE
KONA - ANGLE
ASANA - POSE

Fallen Triangle is an asymmetrical arm balance. There are not many poses which fall into this category. It’s a combination of Side Plank (Vasisthasana) and Triangle (Trikonasana). Regular practice of Fallen Triangle will help your strength and encourage creativity and focus.

You will be balancing on one arm/hand so only practice this posture if you are free from injury in your arms and shoulders.

How to get into the pose:

  • From Downward Facing Dog, inhale and lift your right leg into Three Leg Dog

  • On an exhale draw your shoulders forward over the wrists and bring your right knee towards your left elbow

  • Kick your right foot off the mat to the left side

  • Drop your right heel to the mat (as if in Triangle pose)

  • Lightly draw in your abdominal muscles to support the lower back.

  • Reach your left hand up to the sky and send all your energy upwards. Gaze at your left hand if that feels ok.

  • Breathe deeply.

  • To exit the pose, exhale your left hand to the mat and inhale to take your right leg back into Three Leg Dog

  • Repeat with the left leg

Remember to create balance between effort and ease in your pose

How long to stay in the pose:

  • Up to five breaths

Gaze (Drishti):

  • Fingers

Modifications you can take to make this pose more accessible:

  • Perform the version from High Plank (see video below for demonstration) with both hands on the mat

challenge yourself:

  • Bring your lifted leg up off the mat

  • Bring your lifted foot forwards towards the top of the mat

Contraindications / Cautions:

  • Do not practice Fallen Triangle if you have an ongoing or recent injury to your wrist, elbow or shoulder

Enjoy your practice and get in touch if you have any questions.