Marichyasana B: Sage Marichi's Pose II
Marichyasana B, pronounced mar-EECH-YAH-sah-nah B, is an advanced seated forward bend and one of the intricate variations within the Marichyasana series. Named after the revered Vedic sage Marichi, this pose embodies focus and internal reflection. In Marichyasana B, one leg is carefully placed in Lotus Pose, while the other is bent with the foot flat on the floor. The practitioner then binds their hands behind their back before folding forward, creating a deep internal massage for the abdominal organs.
This pose is a powerful blend of hip opening, spinal lengthening, and internal cleansing, making it a valuable addition to an advanced yoga practice. For those utilizing a yoga generator to explore challenging asanas, Marichyasana B often appears as a benchmark for flexibility and concentration.
How to Practice Marichyasana B
Follow these instructions to safely and effectively practice Marichyasana B:
- Begin seated with your legs extended straight out in front of you in Staff Pose (Dandasana).
- Exhale and bring your left leg into Ardha Padmasana (Half Lotus Pose). Ensure your left heel is close to your right hip crease and your knee is comfortable.
- Bend your right knee, placing your right foot flat on the floor with your shin vertical, directly in front of your right hip.
- As you exhale, lean your torso slightly forward and to the left.
- Wrap your right arm around the outside of your right leg. Reach behind your back with your right hand.
- Extend your left arm behind your back from the opposite side and clasp your right wrist or hand, creating a bind.
- Inhale to lengthen your spine, then exhale as you slowly fold forward from your hips, bringing your torso over your right leg.
- Keep your gaze (drishti) towards the tip of your nose (Nasagre) as you hold the pose, breathing deeply and evenly.
- To release, inhale and slowly lift your torso. Unbind your arms and extend your legs.
- Repeat the sequence on the other side, placing your right leg in Half Lotus and bending your left leg.
Marichyasana B requires significant hip and shoulder flexibility. If you are using a Marichyasana B generator or a general pose generator to guide your practice, remember to always prioritize proper alignment over depth, especially in binding poses.
Benefits of Marichyasana B
Beyond the physical stretch, Marichyasana B offers profound benefits informed by yoga anatomy:
- Spinal and Shoulder Flexibility: The forward bend deeply stretches the entire spine, and the binding action significantly opens the shoulders and chest.
- Hip and Knee Mobility: The Half Lotus position and the bent leg work to increase flexibility in the hips and knees, improving overall lower body mobility.
- Abdominal Organ Stimulation: The compression of the abdomen in the forward fold gently massages the internal organs, particularly those involved in digestion.
- Improved Digestion and Circulation: This internal massage increases blood circulation to the abdominal region, which can significantly enhance digestive function and stimulate the colon.
Cautions and Contraindications
Given its advanced nature, Marichyasana B should be approached with caution:
- Avoid this pose if you have any existing knee injury or discomfort. The Half Lotus position can put significant strain on the knee joint if proper alignment and flexibility are not present.
- Individuals with lower back issues should practice with extreme care, ensuring the forward fold originates from the hips rather than rounding the spine excessively.
- If you experience any sharp pain in your hips, knees, or shoulders, gently release the pose.
Marichyasana B Details
| Sanskrit Name: | Marichyasana B |
| Pronunciation: | mar-EECH-YAH-sah-nah B |
| Pose Level: | Advanced |
| Drishti: | Nasagre (Tip of the nose) |
| Pose Type: | Binds, Forward Bends, Hip Openers, Seated Poses |











