Peacock (Mayurasana)
Pose Overview
| Common Name | Peacock |
| Traditional Sanskrit Name | Mayurasana |
| Sanskrit Name Pronunciation | may-yur-AHS-ah-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 |
Peacock Pose, also known as Mayurasana, is a challenging arm balance that requires a lot of strength and balance. It is a pose that is typically practiced by advanced yogis who have a strong foundation in arm balances and inversions. The traditional Sanskrit name for the pose, Mayurasana, comes from two words: "Mayura" which means peacock and "asana" which means pose. The pose is said to resemble a peacock spreading its feathers.
Benefits of Peacock
Strengthens the arms and shoulders Improves balance and focus Strengthens the core
How to Enter Peacock
Start in a seated position on your mat with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Place your hands on the floor beside your hips, fingers pointing forward. Bring your knees to your elbows and place your elbows on the floor beside your hips. Press your hands and elbows down into the floor and lift your hips off the floor. Slowly straighten your arms and lift your feet off the floor. Balance on your hands and keep your gaze forward to maintain balance.
How to Exit Peacock
Slowly lower your feet back down to the floor. Lower your hips back down to the floor. Release your hands and come back to a seated position.
Common Peacock Modifications & Variations
If you are struggling to balance on your hands, you can use blocks or blankets to help support your hips. If you have wrist pain, you can use wrist supports to help protect your wrists.
Common Mistakes with Peacock
Not engaging your core and relying on your arms to hold you up Picking your head up and looking around while in the pose
Safety Guidance
This is an advanced pose that requires a lot of core strength and balance. If you are new to arm balances or inversions, it is best to practice under the guidance of an experienced teacher. Be sure to warm up your arms and shoulders before attempting this pose. If you have wrist pain or injuries, it is best to avoid this pose or use wrist supports.
