Feathered Peacock (Pincha Mayurasana)
Pose Overview
| Common Name | Feathered Peacock |
| Traditional Sanskrit Name | Pincha Mayurasana |
| Sanskrit Name Pronunciation | PIN-chah my-yoor-AHS-uh-nuh |
| Pose Difficulty | Advanced |
| Drishti
Drishti is the gaze or visual focus point during yoga poses.
Learn more about Drishti |
Straight ahead or the nose |
Feathered Peacock pose, also known as Pincha Mayurasana in Sanskrit, is a challenging arm balance that requires strength, balance and flexibility. This pose is said to resemble a peacock spreading its feathers, hence the name. It is considered an advanced level pose and is often included in yoga sequences for building strength and focus.
Benefits of Feathered Peacock
Strengthens the core, arms, and wrists Improves balance and focus Stimulates the digestive system Improves confidence and self-awareness
How to Enter Feathered Peacock
Begin in a kneeling position on the mat. Place your hands on the mat, with your fingers facing forward, and your elbows close to your ribcage. Come onto the tips of your toes, lifting your hips up towards the ceiling. Begin to lean forward, lifting your feet off the mat. Keep your elbows close to your ribcage and engage your core. Look forward and keep your gaze steady.
How to Exit Feathered Peacock
Slowly lower your feet back to the mat. Release your hands from the mat and come back to a kneeling position. Take a few deep breaths and come out of the pose.
Common Feathered Peacock Modifications & Variations
To make the pose more accessible, you can use blocks to support your hands, or you can use a wall for support. To deepen the pose, you can try lifting one foot at a time, or try lifting both legs off the ground.
Common Mistakes with Feathered Peacock
Not keeping the elbows close to the ribcage Not engaging the core Not keeping the gaze steady
Safety Guidance
This pose should be avoided if you have wrist or shoulder injuries. Start with a modified version of the pose if you are not yet ready for the full version.
