Parsvottanasana, pyramid pose, is an intense side stretch pose. In Ashtanga, you take namaste behind your back and pivot to the back of the mat to fold over your right leg with square hips. Draw your shoulder blades away from your ears to keep length in your neck and open your chest. You can modify by only coming half way down, keeping a bend in the front leg, grabbing opposite elbows behind your back, or bringing your hands down to the mat or blocks for more stability. This pose calms your mind as it strengthens your legs and hips and stretches your back body and lengthens your abdominals.