Inversions-ShoulderstandIntermediate

Intense Peacock Pose

Uttana Mayurasana

An intense peacock variation that lifts one leg toward the ceiling while the chest arches in a supported bridge.

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How to Perform

  1. 1

    From Setu Bandha Sarvangasana, anchor both shoulders and press into the grounded foot.

  2. 2

    Lift the opposite leg straight up, keeping the pelvis lifted and level.

  3. 3

    Lengthen through the raised leg and soften the throat for smooth breathing.

  4. 4

    Lower the leg with control, repeat on the second side, then roll the spine down to rest.

Benefits

  • Strengthens back extensors and glutes.
  • Opens the chest and hip flexors after shoulderstand work.
  • Improves balance in asymmetrical backbends.

Alignment Cues

  • Shoulders bear weight, neck stays free
  • Elbows stay under shoulders
  • Spine lengthens from shoulders to hips
  • Legs extend straight from pelvis

Common Mistakes

No common mistakes listed.

Contraindications

  • Neck injury or cervical spine issues
  • Uncontrolled hypertension
  • Glaucoma or retinal pathology
  • Pregnancy after first trimester
  • Menstruation (traditional guidance)
  • Wrist or shoulder injury

Tags

Advanced ShoulderstandsCoreIntermediateInversions-ShoulderstandSarvangasana SeriesShouldersSpineasana