Fallen Angel

Devaduuta Panna Asanaदेवदूत पन्न आसन
Fallen Angel
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Maya - Pose Assistant

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Benefits

Fallen Angel Pose is a visually striking and challenging arm balance that incorporates a twist and balance on one hand and the side of the head. It builds arm, shoulder, and core strength, stretches the side waist, and enhances proprioception.

Practice Guide

1

Begin in Side Crow Pose (Parsva Bakasana) with your legs twisted to the right, so your right outer thigh/hip is resting on your left upper arm (triceps shelf).

2

From Side Crow, gently lower the left side of your head (temple or cheek area) to the floor, just beside and slightly in front of your left hand. Your left hand, left elbow, and the left side of your head will form a triangular base.

3

Shift your weight carefully onto this base. Ensure your neck feels comfortable and supported by your shoulder strength, not compressed.

4

Once stable, extend your top (right) leg up towards the ceiling, keeping it active.

5

You can then extend your bottom (left) leg straight out to the side, parallel to the floor, or keep it tucked in, depending on your balance and flexibility.

6

Your right hand can remain on the floor for support or lift to hover for an added balance challenge.

7

Hold the pose, breathing steadily. To exit, carefully lower your legs, lift your head, and return to Side Crow, then to a squat or Child's Pose.

Modifications

Practice entering from Side Crow by gently placing the cheek on the mat without fully lifting the legs initially

Use a folded blanket under the head/shoulder for cushioning and support

Focus on lifting the hips high rather than achieving full leg extension at first

Keep both knees bent initially

Safety Notes

Acute neck injuries or chronic neck pain/instability

Shoulder injuries (especially rotator cuff issues of the supporting shoulder)

Wrist problems (supporting hand)

Glaucoma or high blood pressure (due to head-down position)

Vertigo or dizziness

Anatomy

Muscles Targeted

Shoulders (deltoids, rotator cuff of supporting side)
Arms (triceps of supporting arm)
Core (obliques for lift and twist)
Wrists (supporting hand)
Neck (isometric strength, not weight-bearing)

Muscles Stretched

Side body (waist, obliques of top side)
Outer hips
Neck (gentle stretch on one side if head is turned)
Chest (mildly)

Focus Areas

Advanced Arm BalanceInversion HybridTwisting BalanceUpper Body StrengthCore Strength ObliquesBalanceConcentrationSide Body StretchUnconventional Pose

Yoga Styles

Signature of
Also practiced in
PowerVinyasa
AdvancedShowcase pose requiring exceptional strength, balance, and body awareness
PowerUltimate challenge pose, demonstration of advanced arm balance mastery
VinyasaCreative peak pose in advanced arm balance sequences

Sequencing

Maya's Tips

These insights help Maya understand how this pose flows with others when creating sequences and classes.

Unconventional Arm Balance Inversion HybridCombines A Twist With Balance On One Shoulder Head And HandRequires Careful Neck Awareness And Strong Shoulder StabilizersApproach With Caution Building The Components GraduallyCan Be A Showcase Peak Pose