Mayurasana: The Peacock Pose

Mayur is the Sanskrit term for “peacock.” Hence, mayurasana is commonly known as the “peacock pose.” This peacock pose yoga is ideal for people who have achieved advanced level yoga poses since it requires strength and good balance. In this pose, one assumes the pose of a peacock, wherein, one balances the whole body (in the lateral plane) on ones palms with the support of the elbows, similar to the manner in which a peacock’s legs hold its body. The elbows are placed on the sides of the navel lending support. It is one of the best abdominal exercises.

Peacock yoga is an excellent stomach exercise and is regarded as one the most effective abs exercises; however, it is important that one follow the correct sequence of steps to attain this pose, otherwise it can lead to injury.

Steps involved in mayurasana

1. Kneel on the floor, with your knees apart at a distance of about 10 to 12 inches.


2. Place your palms on the ground and in between your knees; fingers pointing towards the abdomen.


3. Bend forwards so that the sides of the navel touch the elbows.


4. Gradually put your weight on the elbows and the palms and stretch the legs outwards.


5. Raise the upper part of the body. Once the upper body is raised and the balance is maintained, raise the legs from the thighs, so that the whole body is parallel to the ground and supported by the palms and the elbows.


6. Remain in the pose for as long as you can.


7. Return to the original position slowly, by first lowering your legs and then the upper body.

Benefits of mayurasana

1. It is a good stomach exercise. It strengthens the abdominal muscles and tones them.


2. It counters the effects food poisoning and helps relieve its symptoms.


3. It is particularly beneficial to the liver and pancreas and suggested to people suffering from diabetes.


4. It helps strengthen the arms, shoulders, and back muscles.


5. It is an ideal exercise to awaken the kundalini energy.


6. It also improves sexual health of both the sexes and helps attain full orgasms. It improves semen quality and improves vaginal congestion thereby enhancing sexual intercourse.


7. It is recommended that people with digestive problems practice this pose in their daily routine since it helps improves blood supply to the organs and tone them due to intra abdominal pressure.


8. It helps cure piles and constipation.


9. It is recommended for fighting obesity.

Precautions

1. Since this pose is an advanced level yoga posture caution must be maintained while doing this pose. Jerky movements must be avoided to prevent injury.


2. People suffering from spinal dysfunction and pain must avoid doing peacock yoga.


3. People with excessive weight must be careful as they have to support their entire body weight on their palms. It is advised that they do it only under the guidance of an expert.