Yoga For Well – Being
- bey0ndM@gz!ne
- August 8, 2020
- Health-Wellness
- 0 Comments
Ardha Matsyendrasana
(Half Lord of the Fishes Pose)
Pose demonstrated by Master Kamal
Etymology: Ardha – Half , Matsya – Fish , Indra – King or Lord, Asana – Posture.
Chakara Awareness: Muladhara Chakara (Root Chakara), Anahata Chakara (Heart Chakara) and Manipura Chakara (Navel Chakara).
Practice Level: Basic
Classification: Seated pose and half spinal twist pose.
Physical (Anatomical) Benefits
- Relieves tension in thoracic (mid) spine
- Increases flexibility and range of motion in the spine
- Opens chest and shoulders
Health Benefits
- Helps cure stomach disorders and improves intestinal health
- Helps lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels which could lead to better diabetes management
- Stimulates liver and kidneys
- Increases the elasticity of the spine and tones the spinal nerves. Stimulates the spinal cord and enhance its functionality
- Relieves back pain and stiffness between the vertebrae
Step by Step
- To begin, sit in a relaxed position, lean back with the support of both arms and spread your legs
- Bend your right leg and place it under your left buttock
- Place the left leg outside of the right knee on the ground
- Bend your right arm and place your right elbow outside of the left knee. Keep your hand in Chin mudra (gently join the tip of the thumb and the index finger, while the other three fingers are stretched out).
- Place the left hand beside the hip on the ground, and keep your head straight and look forward.
- Concentrate on your breath after you settle in the final pose for 20 to 30 seconds
- Release your legs back to the starting position, and repeat the same on the other side
Preparatory Pose:
- Janu Sirsasana (Head to Knee Pose)
- Gomukhasana (Cow Face Pose)
- Virasana (Hero Pose)
- Baddha Konasana (Bound Angel Pose)
Contra-indications:
- For those who suffer from peptic ulcer and hernia should avoid this pose
- For those who have severe spinal problems should avoid this pose
- This pose should be avoided during pregnancy and menstruation
Beginners’ Tips
- Place a folded blanket under your hips to create space to lengthen the spine
- To extend the bottom leg forward rather than bending. This is a good option for tender knees
