Yoga is an extremely beneficial practice that involves twisting, bending, stretching and other various movements within the body. These movements work together to provide the body and mind with an array of benefits that make us stronger physically and mentally.
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose (Ardha Matsyendrasana)
Named after renowned yogi and founder of Hatha yoga, Matseyendranath, half lord of the fishes pose is a twisting pose that is practiced to improve flexibility, boost relaxation, stimulate digestion, and also works to cleanse the body from toxins.
Half lord of the fishes pose is derived from the Sanskrit name, Ardha Matsyendrasana, where “Ardha’ means half, ‘Matsya’ means fish, and ‘Eendra’ means king.
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose Directions:
The following directions will help you master this beneficial pose.
- Sitting in Sukhasana, bend your left leg at the knee and place the left foot on the outside of the right hip.
- Place the right foot on the outside of the left knee making sure to keep the right foot flat on the floor.
- Bring your left arm up and place it on the outer side of your right knee, while keeping your elbow at the knee. Grasping the right foot with your left hand and slowly move your right arm behind the back for stability.
- As you exhale, twist your trunk towards the right side and hold this position for about 6 seconds.
- Inhale and return to the starting position before repeating on the other side.
- Practice 2 rounds of the pose on each side.
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose Variations:
Due to the deep twist required in this pose, it is important to listen to your body to avoid exposure to injuries. There are many variations one can do with this pose in order to be more comfortable and relaxed.
Variation 1:
If sitting on the floor is uncomfortable and you need extra support, use a blanket or pillow to help you twist the torso with comfort.
Variation 2:
If you are having trouble with flexibility, extend the bottom leg and practice the pose with added comfort.
Variation 3:
Bound Half Lord of the Fishes Pose
This variation can be practiced by more experienced yogis.
- Bending your left elbow, bring your arm underneath the right knee and your left hand towards the left hip.
- Stretch and extend your right arm around and behind your body to bring your hands together.
- Bound your hands holding the left wrist with the right hand. Make sure to lengthen your spine and turn into the twist with soft shoulders.
- Come back to starting position and repeat on the other side.
Benefits of Half Lord of the Fishes Pose:
Practicing this pose can give the body and mind a multitude of benefits especially when it comes to the spine and the digestive system.
Some of the added benefits include:
- Opens up the hips to promote tone and strength
- improves the flexibility of the spine
- Improves blood circulation
- Strengthens and tones the muscles in the back, hips, legs, and upper abs
- Alleviates symptoms of backaches, sciatica, and fatigue
- Detoxes the entire body
- Promotes strength and balance in the body
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose Precautions:
It is important to consult your doctor in order to get the green light to practice this pose and any other kind of yoga or exercise.
If you suffer from or experience any of the following conditions, it is best to avoid half lord of the fishes pose:
- Cardiac problems
- Abdominal injuries
- Hernia
- Pregnancy
Quick FAQs
1. How can one practice the lord of the fishes pose?
By following the steps mentioned in the article above, you can practice and perform the Lord of the Fishes Pose.
2. What are some of the benefits of practicing lord of the fishes pose?
some of the added benefits of the pose include improved flexibility in the spine, improved blood flow, and improved digestive function.
Updated by Siya Rajan on 05/31/2018
The content of this Website is for informational purposes only, is general in nature and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and does not constitute professional advice. The information on this Website should not be considered as complete and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment. You should consult with your physician before beginning any exercise, weight loss, or health care program and/or any of the beauty treatments.
References:
Courtesy The Yoga Institute, Santacruz (E), Mumbai
