Yin

Thread the Needle

Parsva Balasana (Yin)

Slide one arm under the body and rest the shoulder and head down.

Benefits: Encourages fascial release, joint mobility, and a calm parasympathetic response. Particularly helpful for easing upper-body stress.
Props: Blanket or block optional.
Hold Time: 3 to 5 minutes
Cautions and Contraindications: Avoid forcing depth. Back out if you feel sharp, pinching, or electric sensations, especially around knees and low back.
Entering Thread the Needle: Come onto hands and knees. Slide one arm under the chest with the palm facing up. Lower the shoulder and side of the head to the mat. Take a steady inhale to create length, then use the exhale to settle into the final shape.
Exiting Thread the Needle: Press into the grounded hand. Slide the threaded arm back out and return to tabletop. Pause in a neutral position for a moment before continuing.