Matsyasana – The Fish Pose(Power Yoga Pose)

Matsyasana – The Fish Pose

In Sanskrit “matsya” means fish. Matsyasana or the fish Pose can be utilized to skim on water like a fish. This is the forty-third pose in Power Yoga Pose. The Fish Pose gives a good backward stretch to the neck and hence it is used as a counter pose for asanas that cause the forward bend of the neck. Matsyasana strengthens the back muscles.

How to do Matsyasana (The Fish Pose)?

1. Sit in Padmasana or the cross-legged meditative pose.
2. Slowly arch your back and continue until the head touches the ground.
3. One can use the elbows to give support the weight of the trunk during the arching process.
4. Once the back of the head touches the ground, bring your hands forward and grab the toes of the feet. The entire body weight will rest on the buttocks and the head and to some extend the elbows.
5. Remain in this position for as long as it is comfortable.
6. Relax and breathe normally and slowly in the final pose.

Benefits 

1. Using this asana one can float on water. You may experiment with this safely in a swimming pool if you have someone to monitor you. With some practice, you will be able to achieve this position in the water itself. You will find that the body sort of floats on water. The trick to this is to gulp a little air and fill your lungs so that floatation is achieved. With skill, you will be able to keep the head and nose just above the water to breathe slowly. The rest of the body may be slightly submerged. You can float as long as you want with this technique.
2. Matsyasana stretches and expands the chest and lungs. It is good for the entire respiratory system and relieves asthma and bronchitis.
3. Matsyasana is good for relieving stiffness in the neck and shoulders.
4. It improves digestion by stretching all the digestive organs.
5. Matsyasana can relieve one of constipation.