Fish Pose
Sanskrit Name: Matsyasana
Challenge Level: Medium
Fish pose is a supine backbend that greatly benefits the spine, opens the chest and helps erase the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. To enter this pose, the practitioner lies flat on the back with the hands underneath the buttocks. The body is supported on the backs of the legs and the forearms while the back arches and the chest is lifted. The back or crown of the head will touch the floor, but should not bear any weight.This can be a challenging posture for beginners, due to the need for flexibility in the back. It is often used as a counterpose that follows shoulder stand pose and counteracts its forward bending of the neck and spine.
Categories
Backbend Yoga Poses
Our spines are an incredible combination of strength and flexibility. Strong bones and large muscles give us structure and protect sensitive nerves, while flexible ligaments and tendons allow the spine to move in all different planes. With regular backbends we can help to protect this wonderful balance by increasing mobility while strengthening the supporting muscles around the skeleton.
Reclining Yoga Poses
Reclining poses provide safe ways for working abdominal and leg muscles. The spine and back are supported by the ground, helping to prevent strain and injury. The poses are typically at the beginners level and the practice reaps similar benefits to doing the poses standing.