Mayurasana (peacock posture) – “As a peacock destroys snakes, this asana kills toxins in the body.” (B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Yoga) Mayurasana is practiced in many forms of yoga. Entry into Mayurasana varies from discipline to discipline. For example, in the Intermediate series of Ashtanga yoga, Mayurasana is entered via Surya Namaskara A. The hands are reversed as the practitioner moves toward Uttanasana while at the same time separating the feet slightly (pinkies touching, thumbs out). Iyengar styles on the other hand enter Mayurasana from a kneeling position and is ideally held for 60 seconds.
Mayurasana can be quite intense on the wrists and is challenging to balance. However, once the fulcrum is established just just below the navel, the leverage alleviates the need to “muscle” or force the posture. There is ease in Mayurasana, the trick is finding this point of ease. As in all asana, Mayurasana is enjoyed most as the bandhas are fully engaged.
Mayurasana facilitates the development of wrist strength and will help develop some of the minor muscles of the arms and shoulders. In addition, Mayurasana is powerfully effective in developing core strength. The practice of Mayurasana can help us understand the weaving together of leverage, balance and strength which translates neatly on and off the mat.
Padma Mayurasana is essentially the same posture with the legs crossed as in Padmasana. The balance is subtly different but I think you will find it equally enjoyable.
It has been said (B.K.S. Iyengar, Light on Yoga) that Mayurasana opens full blood flow to the abdominal aorta which enhances circulation to the abdominal organs. Other benefits include; increased digestive power, freedom from stomach ailments, relief from the symptoms of diabetes, and get this “prevents the accumulation of toxins due to faulty eating habits.”(Iyengar) Gotta love it!
So, October is the month of the Peacock! Get out there, bring the plumage and practice Mayurasana with zeal this month.
