Matsya Aasana (Fish Pose)

In Sanskrit Matsya means Fish, a Fish Posture. In this posture our lungs fills with air and improves the ability to float in water. One can easily swim in water while doing this pose.

This Aasana can be done in two ways, one is by doing Padmasana (Lotus Pose) and second method is laying down on the ground, this method is easier rather than lotus pose. This second method can be done by any person easily. First

First Method Steps :

1. Sit in Padmasana (Lotus Pose).
2. Now with the help of elbows lay down on your back.
3. Lift up Head and Neck and bend the head towards ground, so in this  way your head (crown) will only touch the floor.
4. Now touch the toes and hold it with index and thumb.
5. Remain in this position for 5-10 seconds.
6. While at the time of returning first, release the toes and slowly straighten the head.
7. Now with the help of palms and elbows come upward and sit straight, in Padmasana (Lotus Posture).

Second Method Steps:

1. Lay Down on the ground on your back.
2. Now with the help of hands and palms lift up the head, so that it touches ground.
3. Stay in this pose for few seconds (5-10 seconds).
4. Now slowly lift up head and straighten it.
5. Relax in Shavasana.

Benefits of Matsya Asana

• Stretches the deep hip flexors and the muscles (intercostals) between the ribs. 
• Stretches and stimulates the muscles of the belly and front of the neck.  
• Stretches and stimulates the organs of the belly and throat.
• Strengthens the muscles of the upper back and back of the neck.  
• Doing this asana expand your chest, apart from this capacity of lungs increases and it makes breathing easier for asthma patients.