How to Do the Forearm Balance – Ashtanga Pinchamayurasana

Pinchamayurasana translates as the feathered peacock pose. It is a forearm balance, from the ashtanga vinyasa intermediate (second) series. This pose strengthens the back and shoulders, tones the core and promotes focus and balance. 

There are some simple tricks that will help you learn how to do the forearm balance to get this pose much quicker and with more grace. For example, remember to keep the gaze a bit forward and the elbows under the shoulders, pressing the elbows firmly to the ground. Shift your hips over the shoulders and elbows before kicking up.

Dolphin pose is a great modification before coming up to the full forearm balance. It is similar to the downward dog, but just taking your forearms towards the mat. It strengthens the shoulders and arms and prepares your core for the pose.

Mastering Pincha Mayurasana is the foundation for many other poses. Once you master this, you can later do the fancy variations while in your forearm balance. Poses such as the scorpion (backbend in forearm balance) and karandavasana (lotus in forearm balance and then lowering the lotus to your arms and returning back up).

However, here is the video tutorial where you can see how to do the forearm balance. Follow Doron’s explanation in the video, and also share with us if you have any other tips. We love learning. 

Pincha Mayurasana

Share the Balance

If you found these tips and tricks helpful, leave us a comment! Which method worked for you? Share this article with a friend who is working on this balance to help them on their way.

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If you want to learn more how to sequence correctly and create a good balanced yoga practice, check out the Doron Yoga Manual.  It is one the most practical ways to master yoga. It is written clearly, simply for every one in mind.