7 Excellent Benefits of Marichyasana

From the ferocious animals to the legendary warriors, the science of yoga infuses history, Vedic wisdom, and Mythology in a perfect fashion. Learning about the fabled heroes from which the yoga poses are inspired provides a perspective insight into the dimension of yoga, a science much more than assuming the forms of the yoga postures.

Marichyasana is a yoga pose dedicated to Sage Marichi, the son of Lord Brahma. Marichi literally translates to a ray of light and the Marichyasana is one glorious pose of the art of yoga that makes the internal organs radiate with health and extends the well-being of the spine.

The Marichyasana has four variations. The first and third variations are practiced with one leg extended and forward folding of the torso.  The second and fourth variations are performed folding the leg on the thigh of another bent leg and a similar leaning of the upper body in front.

Here is a step wise procedure of performing the Marichyasana I suitable for beginner to advanced level practitioners:

1. Sit in Staff Pose. Fold the left knee and place the feet flat on top of a yoga mat.

2. The foot should rest close to the left hip.

3. Keep the right leg strongly stretched out and internally rotated.

4. Twist the torso to the right and compress the left shoulder to the inner edge of the left knee.

5. Cross the left forearm to the outside of the left thigh and rest the hand on the backside of the left hip.

6. Sweep the right arm behind the back and clasp the left wrist in the right hand.

7. Exhale. Lower the front torso over the right leg in a forward direction from the groins.

8. Shoulder blades should not crunch.

9. Hold this pose for 30-60 seconds.

Usage of Props in the Pose:

• The beginner students can sit on a yoga block or pillow for height and deep forward folding.
• Hold the strap in hands if there is a difficulty in clasping the arms behind the back.

Contradictions and Cautions:

• Asthma and Diarrhea

Health Benefits of the Marichyasana:

1. Stimulates liver and kidneys function: Each organ of the body plays a vital role in fostering health and wellness and so do the liver and kidneys. The liver regulates the chemical levels in blood and excretes a product called ‘bile’. The Kidneys filter blood by-products and eliminate waste. The Marichyasana functions to keep these organs in an optimal state of performance.

2. Enhances digestive functions: The process of digestion is crucial in manifesting a robust health and well-being. Sage Marichi’s pose greatly improves the digestive functions providing relief from issues like constipation, indigestion, bloating, acidity, etc. Afterall, “A Good digestion turneth to all health.” — George Herbert.

3. Amplifies blood circulation: The Marichyasana increases blood circulation in the body, especially around the abdominal areas. Our abdominal area consists of vital organs and an enhanced supply of blood to these areas results in good health of these abdominal organs.

4. Supports healthy brain Functions: The brain is the powerhouse of the body and it’s important to take care of this central organ of the nervous system. The daily practice of Marichyasana triggers healthy brain functions and supports a happy nervous system capable of developing sensations of peace and calmness. A serene mind ultimately translates to a relaxed body.

5. Healthy Squeezing of Internal Organs: The Sage Marichi’s pose is asserted for massaging the internal organs that cleanse them and stimulates their functioning. Proper working of internal organs keeps the human body in the peachiest state, both internally and externally.

6. Twisting Benefits for the Body: The Marichyasana encourages the pelvis and shoulders to rotate in opposite directions, creating a twist in the upper body. The twists are generally helpful for detoxifying the stomach, maintaining spinal rotation, reduction in back pain, de-stressing, and so much more. Honor the health benefits of Marichyasana and twists simultaneously while being in this pose.

7. Strengthens the Shoulders: The dedicated practice of the Marichyasana with correct alignment of the shoulders is highly beneficial for the shoulder blades. The stance of the pose builds strength in the shoulders leading to an ease in movements and less shoulder damage.

Practice Marichyasana (the ray of light) and shine brightly with health and goodness in your life