hi there! It’s been a while since posting a fun pose friday post. I’ve got a fun one for you today. Serving up Marichyasana– 4 ways (1-4 or A-D). I’ve only explored I and III– let me know what II and IV are like!
(mar-ee-chee-AHS-anna)
Marichi = ray of light
You might find a variation of Marichyasana (referred to 1, 2, 3, 4 or A, B, C, D) in many yoga classes, but you’ll for sure find all 4 in the Ashtanga Primary Series. note: I’m not a devote ashtangi– so feel free to enlighten me with any thoughts on this post/these poses!
Let’s check out some of the benefits of these poses:
- Stimulates and also calms the brain
- Stretches the spine and shoulders
- Stimulates/massages abdominal organs like the liver and kidneys
- Improves digestion
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Marichyasana I:
tip: Activate the straight leg by flexing the foot and pointing the toes up.
deepen this pose: Forward fold bringing the torso and forehead closer to the straitened leg.
photo cred: paul.lee.photography@gmail.com
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Marichyasana II:
tip: Warm up with poses like Half Lotus, Baddha Konasana and Gomukhasana
deepen: If you are looking for something more challenging – you cray! (or see IV for a different challenge).
photo cred: http://www.ashtangayoga.info
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Marichyasana III:
tip: make sure you’re sitting up nice and tall before taking your twist
deepen: Take a peak (your gaze) back behind you, over your shoulder. Want more? Play with a bind– hand on the ground wraps around your back. Other hand meets the back hand. Hold on tight!
photo cred: my MacBook 😉
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Marichyasana IV:
tip: Text me a photo when you do this– I need proof!
deepen: do you see where the toes are peaking out? I can’t even! #humanpretzel
photo cred: http://www.ashtangayoga.info
For more Marichyasana party time, check these out:
images: www.ashtangayoga/primary-series/ and google images galore
video of all 4 versions: www.youtube.com/marichyasana A-D/