TwistsBeginner

Marichi's Pose II

Marichyasana II

Marichi’s Pose II (Marichyasana II) layers a half lotus onto the classic bind, intensifying hip opening, abdominal compression, and spinal length.

No image available

How to Perform

  1. 1

    Sit with legs extended; place left foot in half lotus atop right thigh with heel near navel.

  2. 2

    Bend right knee upright, heel close to pelvis, and ground the right foot.

  3. 3

    Thread right arm around right shin and wrap left arm behind back to clasp hands or use a strap.

  4. 4

    Inhale to lift through spine; exhale to fold forward, resting chest and chin toward the lotus knee while keeping both legs active.

  5. 5

    Stay 5–8 breaths, then rise, release, and switch sides.

Benefits

  • Deepens hip and knee flexibility while strengthening wrists and shoulders.
  • Massages abdominal organs and improves digestion through intense compression.
  • Enhances focus and breath control in advanced seated binds.

Alignment Cues

  • Lotus heel stays anchored near navel.
  • Bent foot roots evenly without rolling inward.
  • Bind stays snug at waist, shoulders level.
  • Extended leg remains active with kneecap lifted.

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Knee or ankle injury
  • Pregnancy
  • Shoulder issues limiting binds

Recommended Props

Blanket under lotus kneeStrap for bindSupport under sitting bones