Matshyasana (Fish Posture)

In Sanskrit, Matshya means Fish. During practice of this posture, the shape of body posture looks like that of a floating fish in water, hence the name.

1. Be seated in Padmasana.

2. With the support of hands and elbows, lie down by back.

3. Hold big toes by fingers, tilt your head maximum towards back followed by eye sight in the same direction.

4. Lift the lumber region above floor by nearly six inches, trunk resting over shoulders.

5. Breathe normal and hold the posture for a minute.

6. Return to normal lying position with straightened legs full length and relax for a few moments in Shavasana.

Benefits of Matshyasana (Fish Posture) – This is a supplementary Asana to  Halasana, therefore one should practice it after Halasana. Enhances flexibility of spinal column, helps to overcome thyroid problems.

Note - With due practice of regulated breathing (Plavani Pranayama, not in vogue now), a Sadhaka can keep on floating over pond water surface in Supta-Padmasana without any movement of hands or legs for any length of time. (Though one should not ever attempt to practice it without full knowledge and experience).