/ Yoga / By

Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fish Pose): Steps, benefits, and precautions

The name Ardha Matsyendrasana is derived from four Sanskrit words, they are Ardha, Matsya, Indra and Asana which means Adha, Fish, God or King and Mudra respectively. Also known as a half-spinal twist, it is one of the twelve basic asana in hatha yoga. When done regularly, it helps to strengthen the spine and stimulate the digestive system.

If you also want to complete this asana, read on to know a step by step guide to do.

This article gives you the right way of Ardha Matsyendrasana, the health benefits of Ardha Matsyendrasana and the precautions to be taken while practicing it.

A Girl doing an Ardha Matsyendrasana. It is also called the Half lord of the Fish pose.

Let us know the steps to practice Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fish Pose) and its various benefits.

1)- Ardha Matseyndrasna (Half Lord of the Fish Pose) steps: The right way to do Ardha Matseyndrasna
2)- Benefits of Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fish Pose)
3)- Precautions to take before Ardha Matsyendrasna (Half Lord of the Fish Pose)

Ardha Matseyndrasna (Half Lord of the Fish Pose) steps: The right way to do  Ardha Matseyndrasna

1)- Firstly, Sit in a state of Dandasana (with your legs straight forward, with a pillar on your buttocks).
2)- Place your hands on the ground on either side of your hips and keep your spine straight.
3)- Now, bend your left leg gently so that your left heel touches the right hip.
4)- Cross your right leg over your left leg in such a way that your right leg ends next to your left knee.
5)- Bend your upper torso to the right and keep your left hand parallel to your right leg.
6)- Touch your right toes with your left hand.
7)- Inhale and exhale slowly, holding the position for 30-60 seconds.
8)- Now slowly exit the pose, rest for a few seconds and repeat on the other side.

Benefits of Ardha Matsyendrasana (Half Lord of the Fish Pose)

Ardha Matseyendrasana can have some incredible health benefits such as:

  • It opens your chest muscles and lungs and reduces the risk of respiratory diseases.
  • It helps in relieving back pain.
  • This improves the flexibility of the spine.
  • It massages and stimulates the functioning of the abdominal organs.
  • This asana can help in managing slip-disks.
  • It calms the mind and reduces stress and anxiety.
  • Ardha Matseyndrasna depression reduces stiffness and pain in the buttocks.
  • Regular practice of this asana stimulates blood circulation and detoxifies your organs.
  • Ardha Matseyndrasna may help manage UTI symptoms.

Precautions to take before Ardha Matsyendrasna (Half Lord of the Fish Pose)

The following precautions should be taken before practicing Ardha Matsyendrasana:

  • Do not practice this asana if you have any back or spine injury.
  • You should not practice this asana if you have undergone any abdominal, brain or heart surgery.
  • Do not practice this asana if you have peptic ulcers or hernia.
  • Avoid practicing this asana during pregnancy and menstruation as it gives a strong twist to your stomach.
  • Ardha Matsyendrasana is considered helpful in light slip-disc conditions. However, it can have the opposite effect in complicated or severe cases, so practice this asana under the guidance of trained personnel.

Legal Disclaimer: Before participating in any exercise program or using any fitness products or services that may be described and/or made accessible in or through the Nexoye Website and/or the Services, you should consult with a physician or other healthcare provider.