Thread the Needle

Parsva Balasana

Thread one arm under the other from all fours, resting the shoulder and side of the head down in a gentle twist.

Parsva means side; bala means child. Commonly called Thread the Needle.

The photograph uses both knees and the free hand for support, without raised-arm or raised-leg variations. This differs from reclining Figure Four.

Movement guidance

Preparation
Place wrists beneath shoulders and knees beneath hips, sharing weight through hands and knees with the neck long.
Entry and alignment
Turn one palm up and slide it beneath the opposite arm. Lower that shoulder and side of the head comfortably, keeping the other hand supported.
Hold and breathe
Keep the pelvis near knee height without rotating it far or pressing weight through the neck. Rotate comfortably through the chest and upper back. Keep breathing comfortably without holding your breath.
Exit and next movement
Press lightly through the free hand to lift the head and shoulder, withdraw the threaded arm, and return the hand beneath the shoulder.

Use a folded blanket beneath the torso for comfortable head and shoulder support and thread the arm less far.

Difficulty refers to the photographed form. Individual experience may differ.