Arm BalancesIntermediate

Peacock Pose

Mayurasana

Peacock Pose plants the elbows into the abdomen so the body hovers parallel to the floor, like a peacock poised to fan its tail.

No image available

How to Perform

  1. 1

    Kneel with knees hip-width, invert the palms so fingers point back toward the feet, and bring little fingers to touch.

  2. 2

    Bend the elbows together, nestle the diaphragm onto the elbows, and rest the chest along the upper arms.

  3. 3

    Extend one leg back at a time, pressing inner thighs together and lengthening through the toes.

  4. 4

    On an exhale shift the chest forward, bear weight into the wrists, and lift both legs until the body is horizontal.

  5. 5

    Hold steady breaths for 20–40 seconds, then lower feet, separate the knees beside the hands, and release the wrists.

Benefits

  • Flushes abdominal organs to bolster digestion and metabolic balance.
  • Strengthens wrists, forearms, and shoulders for advanced arm balances.
  • Builds focus and nerve by coordinating breath with a firm core lift.

Alignment Cues

  • Elbows stay close and press evenly into the navel
  • Spine lengthens from crown through heels
  • Shoulders remain broad away from ears
  • Gaze soft forward to keep the neck neutral

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Wrist or elbow injuries
  • Unmanaged hypertension or peptic ulcers

Recommended Props

BlanketBlockStrap