Matsyendrasana (The Spinal Twist)

Etymology and Origins of Matsyendrasana

Matsyendrasana is a Sanskrit word. It is sometimes used with the term Paripurna (perfect) pose. It means Matsyendra's Pose, i.e., Lord of the Fishes Pose. It is a seated twisting Yoga pose in hatha yoga and modern yoga tradition beginning from ancient India. Traditionally, another common and easier version of this Yoga is known as Ardha (half) Matsyendrasana. This Yoga Asana usually appears as a seated spinal twist with some variations in different poses.

Step by Step Instructions of Matsyendrasana

First you should take your right leg on the outer side of the left thigh and place it on the ground.
Now take your left heel up to the urethra and touch the ground.
Take your left hand, press the right knee into the chest, catch the folded knee of the right leg.
Take your right hand to the back to touch the left waist- the juncture of thigh and abdomen as shown in the figure.
Now turn your head and shoulder as far as possible to the right side.
Follow the attached figures to make it easier.
Stay in this position for 10 to 15 seconds.
Come back to the original position and relax.
Now the whole process has to be repeated by reversing your hands and legs so that you will be focussed on the left side.
One perfect set is completed when you do both the right side and left side.
In this way, practice it 3 times in one go.

Benefits of Matsyendrasana

Anatomical Focus and Disease Control

This Yoga Asana significantly stimulates the nerves and muscles of both sides of your body.
It also invigorates the spinal column which is the main channel of body mind soul and Kundalini Chakra.
It also helps in curing Rheumatism on the spine, hips, shoulder and neck.
Constipation and indigestion are also cured by this Yoga.
Most importantly, it cures the defects in Liver and Spleen.
It tones up and strengthens your abdominal muscles.
It increases the flexibility of your hips and spine so that your body remains flexible.
It improves the venous blood flow in your abdominal region so that you remain free from abdominal pain.
Continuous practice of Matsyendrasana cures diabetes, colitis and cervical spondylitis.
It helps cure the curvature of the spine.
It also helps in ameliorating respiratory problems like asthma.
This Yoga increases your concentration power and alertness so that you can remain focussed in professional life.
It strengthens your mental efficiency, decreases depression and increases optimism.
It also reduces fatigue and improves memory by improving blood circulation in the brain.

Benefits for Girls and Women

This Yoga tones and strengthens your abdominal muscles.
Girls and women can remain stable during the Menstrual Period.
The flexibility of your hips and spine are greatly improved and as a result, your body remains flexible. This helps you remain young and beautiful.
It improves the venous blood flow in your abdominal region so that you remain free from abdominal pain.
This Yoga increases your concentration power and alertness so that you can remain focussed in professional life.
It strengthens your mental efficiency, decreases depression and increases optimism.
It also reduces fatigue and improves memory by improving blood circulation in the brain.
Girls will perform better in exams by practicing this Yoga.

Precautions

You should keep in mind that in tropical countries with high humidity when you do it you may sweat. So, reduce the daily dose. In winter, you may follow the full course.
In the temperate zone, you are free to do it as per the instructions.
People suffering from Hypertension and cardiac ailments, hernia, pregnancy, peptic ulcers and spinal injuries should avoid it.
Girls and women should be careful about doing this Yoga during their Menstrual Cycle.