Published on May 11, 2008

Matsyāsana (The Fish)

The Attention:

While you reach the position itself, direct your attention to the chest area, and follow the movement of the vertebral column; when reaching the final position, direct your attention to viśuddha-cakra.

The Technique:

• Sit in the lotus position.
• Lay back and rest against the elbows. Breathe in.
• Put your head on the ground and hold the air.
• Arch the body by pushing the chest and neck up.
• Extend the hands and catch hold of the big toes.
• Hold the position.
• Get up by helping with your hands. Breathe slowly.
• Relax.
• Repeat once more, if necesary.

Recommendations

When arching the body do not force the head to rest on the ground against brahmarandhra. Find a convenient spot that is behind the top of your head.

Observations

As a starting position you may elect the lotus or the vajrāsana.
If you choose the second, the hands support the arch formed by the trunk, the neck and the head. The support is provided mainly with the elbows.