Matsyasana (Fish Pose) - How to Do, Its Benefits and Precautions, Contraindications
Matsyasana is derived from Sanskrit words “Purvothan” Matsya” means “Fish” and “asana” means “pose”. The Fish pose is a beginner level asana, which involves back-bending. The asana is created in such a manner, that the entire back gets a good stretch. It is beneficial to enhance the overall body posture. Matsyasana was first described in the Gheranda Samhita. When you do the fish pose, the body starts looking like a fish. It is also described as a dedication to the Fish Lord, Vishnu.
How To Do It?
⦁ You have to lie on your back, ensuring that your legs are together, and your hands are placed comfortably beside your body.
⦁ Place your palms under your hips in such a manner, that the palms are facing the ground. Now, put your elbows closer to each other and place them close to the waist.
⦁ Now, take up the cross-legged position.
⦁ Breathe in and lift your chest up, such that your head is also lifted, and your crown should touch the floor. With the help of the elbows, lift the body into an arch. You can also hold the toes with your hands.
⦁ Make sure that the weight of your body is on your elbows and not on your head. While your chest is lifted, lightly squeeze your shoulder blades.
⦁ Hold the position until you are comfortable. Breathe normally.
⦁ Exhale and then lift your head first, and then drop your chest to the ground. Keep the hands beside the body. Untangle your legs and relax.
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Benefits of Matsyasana (Fish Pose)
⦁ When you do the asana, the brain and the head get adequate blood supply. It also nourishes the pituitary glands and pineal glands. Thus, it leads to an improvement in the brain co-ordination functions.
⦁ Matsyasana tones the muscles of the neck and shoulders. It also improves the alignment. Those who have round shoulders, can practice this asana, for maximum efficacy.
⦁ It also removes the stiffness and tension from the shoulders and the neck.
⦁ The asana acts as a good chest opener. Your chest capacity increases, and so does your lung capacity. Thus, it is a great asana for those who suffer from respiratory illnesses.
⦁ If you do the Fish pose regularly, the neck gets a gentle massage. The Thyroid and Parathyroid glands also get a good massage. Your metabolism will also improve as a result.
⦁ The abdominal organs like liver, kidneys, and the intestines are also positively affected, as a result of regular practice of this asana.
⦁ If you suffer from insomnia, the asana will cure that as well.
⦁ The regular practice of this asana also stimulates the Anahata Chakra and the Vishuddha Chakra. Thus, you are bound to experience emotional growth.
Contraindications
⦁ If you are suffering from Spondylitis, you should avoid doing this asana.
⦁ If you have high blood pressure or any sort of heart problems, then also you should avoid doing these asanas.
⦁ All those of you, who are suffering from Migraine, must avoid doing this asana.
⦁ If you had any deep injuries in the neck, elbows, spine, or the core, then you should avoid doing this asana.
⦁ If you are pregnant, you must avoid this asana.
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