Fish Pose (Matsyasana)

Sanskrit word “matsya” means fish. This asana is known as fish posture because this position fills the lungs with air, improving the ability to float in water.

Benefits of the Fish Pose (Matsyasana):
The matsyasana helps in expansion and stretching of the chest which inturn helps relieve upper respiratory congestion as well as benefits the heart.

How to perform the Fish Pose (Matsyasana):
- Start with shavasana i.e. lie flat on the back.
- Keeping your hips on the floor, breathe-in and raise your head, shoulders, back and upper arms off the floor arching back and raising the chest up. Tilt the head back and place the top of the head flat on the floor.
- Now bring your hands up below the chest and join them at the palms with the fingers pointing straight up (form the anjalimudra or salutation hand gesture). Breathe-in and hold the posture till you can hold your breath or while holding the posture breath gently through nostrils.
- Return back to the shavaasana (#1).

Durations/Repetitions of the Fish Pose (Matsyasana):
For early attempts hold the asana till you can hold your breath, increase the duration gradually while holding the posture for between 2-4 minutes.

Difficulty Level and Advancement of the Fish Pose (Matsyasana):
Matsyasana is a difficulty level 3 asana recommended for beginners.

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