Yoga Pose:
Matsyasana
Important Note
Take special precautions while doing any asana. If you are learning yoga, then take the advice of a knowledgeable person. Do not put any kind of force in the event of pain or unable to do so. Keep in mind that you will be able to succeed only with constant practice.
Brief Introduction Of The Matsyasana
- The Matsyasana is common in both modern yoga and hatha yoga. The term Matsya is referred to as fish and thus gets the name fish pose. It is also said that the asana originates from the medieval times and is found to be practiced as early as the 17th century.
- Typically, this asana is the bending backwards of the body and is also said to be practiced in water. You are capable of floating in the water when you practice this asana. However, we look at the ways that you would be able to practice it on the floor.
- There are different preparatory asanas and follow-up asanas that you can choose to do that can ensure maximum benefits. While you choose to practice this asana you can also take the help of your partner if necessary.
How To Do The Matsyasana?
- If you wish to have benefits to the body and mind the best way to do is by practicing different asanas including the Matsyasana. For this asana you can choose to use the yoga mat, folded fabric, or other mats that you might feel comfortable with.
- Although you can find many variations of the Matsyasana we provide you with the steps on how to practice it with ease as a beginner. Once you master the steps below you can choose to try different variations as time goes by.
- Almost all asanas start with keeping your body relaxed and Matsyasana is no different. By keeping your hands relaxed and feet together you can lie on your back in a completely comfortable position.
- You should now move your hands and place it behind your back with the palms in a position so that they are facing down. While you are in this position you should try to bring both of your elbows as close to each other as possible.
- Now, you should slowly but steadily begin to breathe in while you try to lift your chest and head upward. Lowering your head backward and can keep the top of your head touching the floor while the chest is kept elevated.
- You can proceed now to press your elbows against the ground and by doing this your body weight is on your elbows but not on your head. This is done with the head still touching the floor.
- While you are in this position you should ensure that your legs and thighs are on the floor and not lifted. You should proceed then to inwardly lift your chest which is done from in-between your shoulders.
- Now once you attain this position you can begin to breathe in and out gently. Never try to do it faster as Matsyasana tells you do it as steadily as you can to attain best results with this asana. You can choose to relax a little after each exaltation. You can continue to do it as long as you are comfortable with this pose but never try too hard to hold this position for long.
- By lifting your head up, lower your head and make it parallel to the floor, and then bring your hands to the side of your body again. Once you are in the neutral position you can begin to relax
- You can hold up to 10 with a minimum of 5 breaths while doing the Matsyasana.
Anyone who is a beginner in yoga asanas should practice these steps with utmost diligence. This in turn can help you avoid any nasty injuries to your body. Using mats for your comfort is up to each individual and there are no hard and fast rules about the same.
Benefits Of The Matsyasana
Matsyasana has many benefits for the health of your body and mind like most asanas do. You can look at some of the best benefits that you are likely to get while you practice this asana. This asana can be included in your regular yoga practice at your gym or home.
- Upper neck and back are strengthened and mobilized with regular practice of Matsyasana.
- You would also be able to stretch your chest to a good extent.
- Opening up of the shoulders and strengthening the quadriceps is also done with regular practice of this asana.
- People with respiratory disorders are also benefited with this asana as it requires for you to inhale and exhale deeply.
- Pineal glands, parathyroid glands, and pituitary glands are toned to a good level.
- Helps with stimulation of your internal organs in the belly and throat.
- Insecurities in your mind would be revealed with you and thus end up making you focused and resilient to a big extent.
Precautions To Be Taken While Doing The Matsyasana
You would come to understand that each of the asanas including Matsyasana have their own precautions to be followed. Failing to follow these can result in serious injuries and this is especially the case for beginners of yoga asanas.
- People with low or high blood pressure and diseases associated with the heart are advised not to practice Matsyasana.
- Migraine problems, insomnia, lower back injuries, and people with neck problems are advised to keep away from practicing this asana.
- Hernia surgeries or people who had undergone any recent surgeries to the abdomen are also advised to abstain from practicing this asana.
- If you feel dizzy while practicing this asana you should immediately stop and refrain from practicing it further at all costs.
- Using a folded blanket or a thin pillow may also be a good idea for people who wish to support their head while practicing Matsyasana.
Conclusion
- Seeking the advice of your general physician is a good thing to do before you choose to take up any form of exercise routine. This includes practicing yoga asanas and Matsyasana as well. Any underlying conditions with your body can end up causing trouble for you.
- Practicing this asana regularly can help your mind be relaxed which is almost applicable to most yoga asanas. Advanced versions of Matsyasana should only be practiced with the help of a yoga instructor, teacher, or a guide.
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