Triangle pose I always teach with ‘lightness and lift’ cues rather than sink down, dump down and reach ideas, thinking about up rather than down but for as many different ways to approach the shape there are different ideas around its symbolism too.
There is the tale of Parvati inspired by her reflection to adopt it as a symbol of balance and harmony and the idea it represents the trinity of mind body and spirit. Sometimes the shape of the pose with the arm extended upward, and the other reaching down towards the ground, is believed to represent the connection between heaven and earth or embodying opposing forces, such as stability, expansion, and strength. Reflective of yoga promoting physical grounding, mental, focus, and spiritual expansion perhaps.
It can be seen as a representation of the three gunas (qualities of nature) – tamas, rajas, and sattva, which correspond to inertia, activity, and harmony, respectively. Additionally, the pose signifies the three energetic channels in the body known as nadis, namely, ida, pingala, and sushumna. These channels are believed to carry vital life force or prana throughout the body.
Overall, Triangle Pose in yoga holds a rich symbolism that goes beyond its physical aspect, reminding practitioners of the interconnectedness of the mind, body, and spirit, and inviting them to find balance and unity within themselves and the universe. Physically we are not short of forward fold poses in yoga or shapes that objectify reaching to the floor and it does us all good to self check on our intentions with each shape, breaking away from set habits and ideas of depth and symmetry.
The explanation I like to use in teaching is that in Hindu mythologies a triangle is a potent symbol for the divine principle and the three sides of the triangle represent the forces of the universe: Brahma the creative force, Vishnu, the sustaining force and Shiva the force of change. I think this lends itself beautifully to the physical shape and discussion around options or choices: being willing to change your viewpoint ( literally head position), breaking the chains of continuously reaching down and enquiring of yourself have I picked a sustainable version, can I be teachable, changeable, or creative in taking a different option? Whether your chosen favourite version of triangle is supine or standing, always practice for you and nourishing your own needs.