Mayurasana, or the peacock pose, is an advanced yoga pose that strengthens muscles, improves balance, and aids digestion. Beginners can use aids such as yoga blocks and should start with short holds, gradually increasing to 30 seconds. Those with wrist, elbow, back, or neck injuries should avoid the pose.
Mayurasana is an advanced pose used in the Hatha form of yoga. It is commonly known as the peacock pose, taking its name from the Sanskrit origin of the word for peacock, mayura. In general, mayurasana is performed when the entire body is kept parallel to the floor, while rising with the elbows bent. People who perform this posture strengthen the muscles of the body; improve balance; and reduce health problems, such as constipation and digestion problems.
Some strength is needed to hold the body in the mayurasana pose. As a result, many muscles in the body are worked and toned over time. For example, the arms support the weight of the body, which makes the muscles well defined. In addition, the rest of the muscles in the body, including those in the legs, stomach, chest, back, and neck, work to keep those parts of the body parallel to the floor. Consequently, these muscles are strengthened and developed as well.
Strength is just one part of the many benefits of performing the mayurasana pose. The pose is believed to enhance the yogi’s posture, allowing the core of the body to work to support the spine and retract the shoulders. Additionally, it is believed to improve digestion, prevent constipation, and improve the function of both the pancreas and the liver.
Although mayurasana may be unachievable for beginners, there are some helpful tips that might make it possible. For example, a beginner may want to assume the pose, but he may not have the strength to keep his legs and head parallel to the floor. Some yogis recommend using yoga blocks or cushions to support the body. As the person gets stronger, he can begin to remove the aids, holding the pose without assistance.
Also, beginners to the mayurasana pose should make it easy. Even if they manage to keep their bodies parallel to the ground, they should only do so for a few seconds. As they engage in the pose more frequently, they may hold it for a few more seconds. Eventually, they should be able to hold the pose for 30 seconds.
Most of the body weight rests on the elbows and wrists with the mayurasana pose. As a result, those areas of the body are prone to injury. People with pre-existing injuries to one or both wrists or elbows should not perform this pose. Also, people with back or neck problems should consult a doctor before holding the pose, as it can worsen such injuries or cause irreparable damage. Some people with high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, or intestinal hernias should also refrain from performing the mayurasana pose.
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