All Poses
Matsyasana
Fish Pose
intermediateSupine/Backbend
Muscle Groups
Spinal extensorsChestNeck extensorsHip flexors
A supine backbend where the chest lifts and the crown of the head rests on the floor, opening the throat and chest.
Alignment Cues
- 1.Lie supine with legs extended or in lotus
- 2.Slide hands under the glutes, palms down
- 3.Press into the forearms to lift the chest
- 4.Arch the back and let the crown of the head rest lightly on the floor
- 5.Keep most of the weight on the forearms, not the head
Benefits
- +Opens the chest and throat
- +Stretches the hip flexors and intercostals
- +Strengthens the upper back
- +Stimulates the thyroid
Muscle Groups
Spinal extensorsChestNeck extensorsHip flexors
Contraindications
- High or low blood pressure
- Migraine
- Insomnia
- Serious neck injury