Matsyasana (Fish Pose): Yogasana for Respiratory, abdominal & neck issues

Matsyasana (Fish Pose): Yogasana for Respiratory, abdominal & neck issues

Matsyasana

Matsyasana is asana performed in sitting position. It is also called as 'Fish pose'. As name suggests, it’s been said that if this asana is done in water our body floats like fish.

The asana is a backbend, where the practitioner lies on his back and lifts the heart (anahata) chakra by rising up on the elbows and drawing the shoulders back. The neck is lengthened, and the crown of the head Sahasrara chakra is "pointed" toward the 'wall' behind the practitioner. 

How to do Matsyasana:

-Sit in padmasana , take a deep breath and relax your muscles.

-Now slowly lean back, place one elbow after the other on the floor and arch the back until the top of the head touches the floor.

-Press your forearms and elbows into the floor and lift your chest to create an arch in your upper back.

Matsyasana (Fish Pose)

-Then hold the toes with the hands, otherwise bring the palms together in front of the chest.

-Inhale through the nose and exhale through the mouth. Hold the position as long as comfortable.

-Using the elbows for support slowly return to the starting position.

As the arch of the back deepens with practice, and the heart and throat open further, the top of the head may brush the ground, but no weight should rest upon it.

Initially, practice the Asana three times. After practicing this way for some time begin to extend the practice by holding the posture for a few minutes with normal breathing.

Benefits of Matsyasana :

- Matsyasana strengthens the upper back muscles and the back of the neck, which improves spinal flexibility and posture.

- Matsyasana opens up the lungs, which improves breathing and helps to relieve respiratory ailments.

- Strengthens the respiratory system and is beneficial for asthma, bronchitis and chronic throat problems.

-This pose also helps to relieve constipation and menstrual pain by positively stimulating the muscles of the abdomen. That is why matsyasana is called as perfect yogasana for Respiratory, abdominal & neck issues

- Stimulates kidney function and activates the thyroid gland. Stimulates and balances the Vishuddhi Chakra.

- Daily practice of this asana energizes the body, and reduces fatigue and anxiety.

- Practicing backbends and opening the front side of the body will help these chakras expand, which can increase self-confidence, well-being, and emotional growth.

Caution:

Do not attempt this asana if you are suffering from hernia or other major abdominal surgery. Also avoid this Asana if you are suffering from high blood pressure or dizziness.

Variation in Matsyasana

Variations:

As mentioned above this pose is typically performed with the legs in Padmasana .  If anyone has difficulty in doing padmasana then perform the pose with the legs straightened on the floor.

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Halasana : for Better Digestion & Healthy Skin

Halasana : for Better Digestion & Healthy Skin

In Sanskrit “Hala” means plough, so this halasana is called as plough pose due to its resemblance to the shape of plough. This yoga posture stretches the spine and shoulders while rejuvenating the nervous system. Because the pose calms and relaxes the nerves, brain, and heart, it is traditionally practiced near the end of a yoga session.

Benefits of Halasana (Plough Pose)

 -It improves digestion and appetite.

 -It helps to make spinal cord strong and flexible.

 -Cures the symptoms of menopause.

-Halasana also makes facial skin healthy by improving blood flow the nerves present underneath you face.

 -It helps to reduce stress.

 -It normalizes blood-glucose level and stimulates the internal organs.

 -It stimulates the reproductive organs.

 -Effective in Weight Loss.

 -Strengthens the abdominal muscles.

 -Beneficial for diabetic people. Those people should do this regularly.

How To Do The Halasana

1. First of all lie down flat on your back,  keep your arms placed beside your body and your palms facing downwards.

2. Relax you body & then take a breath and lift your feet off the ground using your abdominal muscles. Your legs should be at a 90-degree angle.

3. Then lift your palms to support your hips to lift them off the floor.

4. After this, try to touch your both the feet to the ground behind your head.

5. Make sure your back is perpendicular to the ground.

6. Hold the position for a minute while focusing on your breathing. Exhale slowly and gently bring down your legs. Avoid jerking your legs while releasing the pose.

Repeat this pose for 3-5 times.

Precautions-

Avoid practicing this pose if you are suffering from diarrhea, glaucoma or other eye problems.  

Perform this pose with caution avoiding jerks. If you are suffering from any neck or spinal cord injury then it is better not to do this asana.