What Is Matsyasana Yoga
Matsyasana (Fish Pose) is one of the more popular Yoga poses. The name of this pose is given due to the formation of the position, which resembles the shape of a fish. It is usually a good complementary pose to the shoulder stand. It’s a great pose for someone trying to get rid of stiffness in the back and shoulder muscles. Before we get into the advantages of this pose, it’s very important to learn the proper position and formation of this pose.
Start this position by lying straight on your back with a mat or blanket placed under you. Follow it up by bending your knees and placing your arms by the side. Now slowly arch your back while lifting it off the ground. Apply pressure and push your elbows to the floor. After this, slowly move your head backwards in a steady manner until your crown touches the floor. Take the support of your body with your forearms and elbows. After you get into this position, start expanding your chest by taking a deep breath and try to push the air into the abdomen. Keep your focus on the thyroid gland as it is critical for this pose. Hold your breath for a few counts, keeping yourself in this position for at least a minute. Now slowly exhale and loosen your body till it comes back to the starting position. Maintain a healthy breathing pattern as this holds the key to this pose or for that matter all the Yoga exercises.
Some precautions, which one needs to take during this pose. Do not maintain a jerking motion and keep the head still without putting too much pressure on it. Do not overstrain yourself by being in the position for too long. Always remember to release yourself slowly from this position, as any speedy or jerky movements can lead to injuries. Keep the proper balance and position with your elbows. This exercise is not recommended for people suffering from high blood pressure, lower back problems, insomnia and cervical pain.
Now let us stress on some of the benefits of this exercise. Matsyasana (Fish pose) is great for patients suffering from Asthma as this position aids in opening your respiratory tract and channels. This pose also helps in regulating your pituitary, adrenal and thyroid glands. This position is an excellent tool to reduce tension in the neck muscles by strengthening the various joints and nerves in the region. One can also find a difference in their digestive system as this pose promotes better absorption of food. Matsyasana (Fish Pose) also helps in flexing the spine.
