All Poses
Ardha Matsyendrasana
Half Lord of the Fishes Pose
intermediateSeated/Twist
Muscle Groups
ObliquesSpinal rotatorsGlutesHip flexorsShoulders
A seated spinal twist named after the sage Matsyendra, deeply rotating the spine while opening the shoulders and chest.
Alignment Cues
- 1.Sit with one leg extended and cross the other foot to the outside of the opposite thigh
- 2.Twist toward the bent knee
- 3.Use the opposite elbow on the outside of the bent knee for leverage
- 4.Lengthen the spine before deepening the twist
- 5.Look over the back shoulder
Benefits
- +Stimulates the liver and kidneys
- +Stretches the shoulders, hips, and neck
- +Energizes the spine
- +Relieves menstrual discomfort and backache
Muscle Groups
ObliquesSpinal rotatorsGlutesHip flexorsShoulders
Contraindications
- Back or spine injury
- Pregnancy