Half Lord of the Fishes Pose - Ardha Matsyendrasana
About Half Lord of the Fishes Pose
Categorized as a seated and twist yoga asana, the classic half lord of the fishes (ardha matsyendrasana) was named after a legendary yoga teacher. This yoga pose is also referred to as the seated spinal twist. As a yoga beginner you can utilize yoga props such as a folded blanket to sit on, for additional support. The guidelines may mislead you into perceiving the half lord of the fishes pose (ardha matsyendrasana) to be a simple asana, but this pose takes a fair share of practice to perfect. Before you start attempting the half lord of the fishes pose (ardha matsyendrasana), get your muscles warmed up by practicing some basic yoga postures such as the baddha konasana, janu sirsasana, virasana, bharadvajasana and supta padangusthasana.
Step by Step Instructions
These easy-to-follow guidelines will help you master the half lord of the fishes pose sequence in no time!
- Position yourself on a yoga mat in a seated pose. Extend your right leg in front of you. Keep your pelvis pressed against the yoga mat.
- Bring your left leg over your right leg so that your left foot is placed flat next to your right knee on the mat.
- Bend your right leg so that your heel is placed next to the left hip.
- Next, bring your left knee up to your chest and wrap your right hand around your knee to bring it into the correct position.
- Exhale and twist your torso towards the back. Shift your head so that you are facing the back, and position your left hand right next to your left hip on the mat.
- Hold the half lord of the fishes pose (ardha matsyendrasana) for at least 30 seconds to 1 minute. Repeat the entire sequence with the other leg.
Health Benefits
The half lord of the fishes pose (ardha matsyendrasana) has numerous outstanding health benefits!
- Strengthens and stretches the spine, hips, neck and shoulders.
- Therapeutic for asthma and infertility.
- Alleviates mild back pain.
- Enhances the functioning of the liver, kidneys and digestive system.
- Therapeutic for fatigue, sciatica and menstrual pain.
- According to tradition, the ardha matsyendrasana pose can enhance the appetite.
- According to tradition the ardha matsyendrasana can prevent and treat some of the most fatal diseases.
Things to Remember!
Individuals suffering from back injuries should refrain from attempting the half lord of the fishes pose without the supervision of a qualified yoga teacher.
