Forearm Stand

Pincha Mayurasana works on Apana Vayu, the downward-moving and rooting energy. This vayu is located in the lower pelvic area, in the perineum and in the legs. Its function is to eliminate toxins and purify the body. The asana strengthens the leg musculature, fosters circulation in the lower body area and supports the flow of energy downward. On the mental level, Apana Vayu helps foster the feeling of stability and grounding and let go of negative emotions.

Pincha Mayurasana works on Prana Vayu, the inward-directed and ascending energy. Prana Vayu is located in the upper chest area and in the heart. It is responsible for the intake and assimilation of prana (life energy). Through the activation of the heart chakra in this asana, Prana Vayu is strengthened and the heart chakra opened. Physically, the asana fosters circulation in the chest area and increases the oxygen supply of the body. On the mental level, Prana Vayu fosters a feeling of vitality, liveliness and joy.

Pincha Mayurasana also works on Udana Vayu, the ascending energy. Udana Vayu is active in the larynx, in the throat and in the head area. Its function is to support communication, expression and spiritual development. Through the inversion of the asana, the circulation in the head and throat area is improved, which fosters the activation of Udana Vayu. On the mental level, Udana Vayu supports the clarity of the mind, the expression of thoughts and ideas as well as spiritual development.

Pincha Mayurasana has a positive effect on the Annamaya Kosha, which represents the physical body. The asana strengthens the core musculature, especially the arms, shoulders and the core of the body. It fosters body stability, improves posture and strengthens the muscles and fascia throughout the entire body.

Pincha Mayurasana also has an effect on the Pranamaya Kosha, which represents the vital energy. Through the activation of the breath and the conscious direction of the energy during the asana, the flow of energy in the body is strengthened. The asana opens the ribcage and supports a deeper breathing, which leads to an increased life energy and an improved flow of energy throughout the entire body.

Pincha Mayurasana also affects the Manomaya Kosha, which represents the mental and emotional body. The asana requires concentration and mental alignment to hold the balance and take the pose. Through the concentration on the body and the alignment of the mind, the asana can help calm the mind, reduce stress and foster a positive mental alignment.

Pincha Mayurasana can also influence the Vijnanamaya Kosha, which represents the intuitive and wisdom-filled body. During the asana, we are called to cultivate our inner wisdom and intuition to hold the balance and consciously lead the body. This fosters the connection to the higher self and the development of self-knowledge and insight.

The asana can help touch the sheath of joy or bliss, Anandamaya Kosha, by generating a feeling of achievement and joy in mastering the pose. In moments when you long for joy and contentment, the practice of Pincha Mayurasana can help foster a feeling of happiness.