Matsyasana : The Fish Pose

Matsyasana means fish posture. It is called fish, as this position fills the lungs with air, improving the ability to float in water. Matsyasana gives a backward stretch to the cervical thoracic, and lumbar regions of the spine and the chest fully. Values of certain asanas are maximised when done one after the other. This asana gives maximum benefit when performed after the Sarvanga Asana (Shoulderstand posture).

Matsyasana : The Fish Pose - Detailed Description

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Steps:

1. Lie flat on the back in the shava-asana.
2. Keeping the buttocks on the floor, inhale and raise the head, shoulders, back and upper arms off the floor arching the back and raising the chest up. Tilt the head back and place the top of the head flat on the floor.
3. Hold for the duration of the inhale breath or breath gently through the nostrils to remain in the posture longer.
4. Return to the shava-asana

The matsya-asana creates a great expansion and stretching of the chest which helps relieve upper respiratory congestion as well as benefits the heart. Additionally, the sinus are drained and opened from the inversion of the head, stretching of the neck and pressure placed on the top of the head. The thyroid and parathyroid glands are stimulated as well.
Since this is not a difficult posture, it is recommended that you breath while holding it for between two and four minutes. If you are uncomfortable breathing, hold the posture for the duration of the inhaled breath. Repeat two or three times.
Benefits:

• Removes stiffness of the cervical, thoracic & lumbar region & increase the flow of nerve current to them.
• Reduces the rounding of the shoulders & massages the shoulder and neck.
• Increase the capacity of the lungs, thereby releasing the bronchial spasms, blockages & the releasing asthma & other respiratory problems.
• Energizes the parathyroid, pituitary and pineal glands.