Fish Pose 

Sanskrit name: Matsyasan 

Meaning: Fish Pose 

General Benefits:

The Matsya bandha causes a stretching on the thyroid and parathyroid glands, thereby improving their function and counterbalancing the effects of the Jalandhar bandha. It stretches the intestines, liver, pancreas, bladder and other abdominal organs which improves their functioning and efficiency. Reduces blood supply to the legs and redirects it to the reproductive and pelvic organs. Stagnant blood around vertebral column is drained. Improves supply to brain and face, also stretches the carotid artery. The reproductive system is improved due to the increased blood supply. Toning of abdominal, thigh and intercostal muscles. Toning of intercostals muscles help in deep breathing, so it is helpful in asthma and bronchitis. It opens up the chest and lungs. Haemorrhoids. Increases circulation to the back which helps in backache and cervical spondylitis. Boosts the immune system due to its effect on the thymus gland. Loosens the spine and prevents round shoulders. Loosens the legs and prepares them for meditation poses.

 

Benefits for Women:

Beneficial for reproductive organs.

 

Therapeutic Applications:

Asthma. Bronchitis. Reproductive disorders. Cervical spondylitis. Haemorrhoids. Back pain.

 

Taking the Position:

In supine position bend the legs into cross-legged position or ideally come into padmasan - lotus pose by spreading your legs a little more than hip-width apart. Bend one leg and place it on the opposite thigh. Bend the other leg and place it on the opposite thigh. With the support of the elbows raise the head, curve the neck backward and place the top of the head on the floor creating an arch in the back. If you are in padmasan - lotus pose try to hold the toes of the feet with opposite hands,otherwise rest the hands on the abdomen or thighs and breathe normally.

 

Releasing the Positions:

To release the asana release the toes. Using the support of the elbows, slowly release the neck and return the shoulders and head to the floor. Straighten the legs. Bring both legs together, returning to the supine position.

 

Anatomical Focus:

Neck, head, throat, chest, hips, back, legs.

 

Anatomical Awareness:

On core area and throat