Matsya Asana (The Fish Posture)

Technique

• Sit in Padma Asana.
• Gradually bend backwards and lie on the back.
• Do not raise the knees locked up in Padma Asana. Rest the elbows on the floor.
• Then bend the head backwards and make an arch form by bending the backbone.
• After bending the backbone in an arch, rest the head on the floor.
• For making a bigger arch exert more pull on the thighs and more twist on the              neck and back. But do not strain to achieve.
• After making an arch of the body, stay in this position for ten to fifteen seconds.
• An advanced way of doing this Asana is to bring the right hand below the body to the opposite side and catch the right big toe.
• Similarly the left hand should be brought below near the hip to catch the left big toe.

Synchronisation of Breath

Maintain normal breathing.

Benefits of Matsya Asana

• Activates the spine and all muscles of the back.
• Gives massage effect to facial tissues and face wrinkles disappear, thereby ensuring a youthful look.
• Removes stiffness of the neck and back and brings flexibility to the whole upper area of the body.
• As the chest is thrown open, deep breathing is possible. Helps to remove spasm             from bronchial tubes and thereby relieves asthma.
• Backward pressure of the head causes a brisk flow of blood to all areas of the neck.
• An excellent Asana for colds and purulent tonsils.
• Thyroids and parathyroids receive lot of blood.
• Gives strength to the waist, back and neck.
• Tones up pituitary and pineal glands that are located in the brain.
• Eliminates constipation and massages abdominal organs.
• Good for women as it stimulates pelvic organs, especially genital ones and the ovaries in particular.
• Broadens the chest, corrects a hunchback and thereby ensures body symmetry.
• Good for wrestlers in preventing defeat by pin fall.
• Reduces fat from buttocks and stomach.
• Imparts lightness and activity to the body as a whole.
• Useful for abdominal illness.
• Helps diabetics by improving general metabolism.
• Relieves inflamed and bleeding piles.

Activates the Subconscious Mind

Since this Asana ensures varied benefits one should mentally repeat any statement suited to his needs.

Suitability Suitable for all.