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Yoga Posture 101
Ardha = 1/2 Matsyendra = Sage Asana = posture
This posture takes its Sanskrit name from the great sage Matsyendra, one of the first teachers of Hatha Yoga. The story goes like this:
Once Lord Shiva went to a lonely island and explained to his consort Parvati the mysteries of yoga. A fish near the shore heard everything with concentration and remained motionless while listening. Siva, realizing that the fish had learnt Yoga, sprinkled water upon it, and immediately the fish gained divine form and became Matsyendra (Lord of the Fishes) and thereafter spread the knowledge of Yoga.
Benefits: It increases synovial fluid of the joints. A fresh supply of blood is sent to the ligaments and spinal nerves. Tones and massages the abdominal organs. Stimulates the large intestines and aids in digestion. Calms the nervous system and helps to bring peace of mind.
Contraindications: Low back/SI joint issues require more attention to alignment. Lengthening spine and hugging into the midline for SI joint stability will be a must for this pose.
Common mistakes: Buttocks lift off the floor. Hips turn/twist along with the spine. Body leans to one side or back. Low back collapses.
Work in the pose: Root both hips to the ground. Sit on a blanket if this is hard to accomplish. Aim top bent knee to the sky. Hug the legs in. Stabilizing the pelvis. Lengthen the spine. Turn from the low belly and up but focus more attention on the upper back(the stiffest part of the spine). Let the head follow the heart.
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