Yoga BLOG

Marichyasana: Sitting like a sage Marichi is an important figure in both Hinduism and yoga. The son of Brahma is considered one of the seven seers and, in this Indian belief, the forefather of humanity. It's no wonder that the name Marichi also has such an impressive significance: Translated, the name means "thunderbolt" and thus characterizes the impetus for humankind on Earth. This figure was honored with several yoga poses. This pose is the Marichyasana pose, which has been numbered in its various variations for simplicity. The beneficial effects of the swivel seat With its holistic effect on body, mind, and soul, the twist pose is one of the most important yoga exercises. It doesn't matter whether you practice Marichyasana at Level I, II, or III. As many examples in yoga demonstrate, you always practice wherever you are. You'll discover options that allow you to improve your performance level, reaching your limits without exceeding them. The same applies to Marichyasana, whose healing effects you can feel at every level. You can decide for yourself which version works best for you! The effect on the body rewards you with a wide range of positive benefits. First, the spine and back are stretched and strengthened simultaneously, depending on the part and side. This contributes significantly to muscular balance. This is important for a stable torso, which you need for all your everyday movements and also for yoga. In some cases, you can also relieve or even eliminate minor back and hip problems with Marichyasana. The shoulder area is also stretched. This may be particularly helpful if you have to work a lot on the computer at work or otherwise have one-sided strain in this area. And: Tension in the shoulder and neck area is often the cause of headaches, which you can also get under control with the healing twist pose. The twisting position also often has a soothing effect on the internal organs. The organs on one side of the abdomen are gently massaged by the rotation. This can relieve digestive problems such as bloating or constipation. The Marichyasana pose has a revitalizing effect by stimulating the nerve pathways that originate in the spine. It stimulates your mind and often banishes a gloomy mood, making it a good antidote to stress and promotes well-being. Good to know: The easy version of the Marichyasana pose can also be performed on an office chair. This valuable yoga pose can also recharge your batteries at work . Note contraindications If you suffer from insomnia, you should ask your yoga instructor to show you an alternative to Marichyasana, as its energizing effect may be counterproductive to falling asleep. You should also be careful if you suffer from migraines. If you have back pain with a medical cause, it's best to ask your doctor or physiotherapist whether and to what extent you can perform a twist in your back. Try and experience different Marichyasana variations Marichyasana has the advantage that you can choose the variation that feels best for you at the moment. The classic pose is the twist pose, sitting on a mat or blanket. You begin practicing in a long seated position with straight legs. It's important to maintain an upright spine even here. Imagine that the crown of your head is being pulled upwards as if by a thread! Now bend one leg and pull the foot close to your buttocks. Bring the opposite arm with the elbow over the bent knee. With the other hand, support yourself far back on the floor and twist your upper body towards the side of the bent leg. Hold the asana for a few breaths. Advanced practitioners clasp your arms behind your back. Important: Never forget to practice in reverse! Image © anderm / 123rf.com