How On Earth Do You Make That Bind?
In this first video I share some tips for binding ‘Half-Lotus’ and Marichyasana - A, B, and C variations. In the second video I look at how you can begin to work on Marichyasana-D, which is one of the most difficult twists in the Ashtanga yoga practice. I would argue that Marichyasana-D is even more difficult than the twists found in the Intermediate Series (except for Pasasana “the noose”) and that you really don’t find the next difficult twisting posture until you arrive half-way through Advanced-A Series at ‘Purna Matsyendrasana.’
In these yoga tutorials, I will guide you through the different stages of progression for each of these postures so that you can work towards figuring out how to bind your hands together, as your body gradually opens with patience and time.
I didn’t mention the fact that these binds come much more easily for the lucky ones with longer arms and skinny legs and waists!
As Tim Miller once said to me “You know what the ‘D’ stands for in Marichyasana-D don’t you?”
I said, “No, what?”
He responds with a smile on his face: “DIET.” 😊
Even so, most binds will become accessible to everyone in these Primary Series poses with a little time and effort. The body will begin to change and open naturally and you will find it easier to reach and grab for your fingers, while wrapping your arms around your legs.
Please don’t forget that the benefits of practicing these postures are experienced even without “binding” them!
There are many variations to work on and enjoy!
Be sure to enjoy your personal journey with these four postures named after the ancient Indian Sage, Marichi. If you keep practicing all the way into the Advanced-B Series, you will find four more postures named Marichyasana - E, F, G, H, which are much more challenging than these ones!
The great sage Marichi was born as one of the mythical “mind-born” children to the creator god Brahma. He is said to be sustained by the energy of the god Vishnu, and was the first of several Prajapatis (rulers of the people). He is counted among the “seven great seers” Saptarishi. This ancient sage, Marichi, marries and becomes the father of Kashyapa (who in turn becomes a Saptarishi) and the father of many divine beings including: Vamana (an incarnation of Vishnu), Takshaka (king of the dragons), Indra (king of the gods) along with the other twelve Sun gods (Adityas) like Varuna, Surya, and Agni, not to mention Garuda (the mythical bird that Vishnu rides), many of the seductive nymphs (also known as female nature spirits) and other oppressive demons. So, in a sense, this ancient figure named “Marichi” is the grandfather of all beings above, below and on the earth.
Now it’s your turn…
Leave some questions or comments on these postures or other aspects of Yoga you’d like me to touch upon in upcoming videos!
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