Ardha Matsyendrasana

"Ardha" means half. This asana is named after yogi Matsyendranath who first taught it to the aspirant of Hatha Yoga. It is said that Matsyendranath was the disciple of lord Shiva.

Technique of Ardha Matsyendrasana :

• Sit extending both the legs together in front, hands by the side, palms resting on the ground , fingers should remains together pointing forward.
• Place the right heel near the buttock. Do not move the heel from this position.
• Bend the left knee and put the left ankle on the outer side of the right knee.
• Let the right armpit rest on the outer side of the left thigh.
• Now push the knee backwards so that it touches the back part of the armpit.
• Then hold the toe of the left foot with the right hand.
• Twist the spine slowly exerting force on the joint of the left shoulder.
• Let the spine be twisted to the left side as far as possible.
• Turn the head to the left side as far as it can go. Bring it to the line of the left shoulder.
• Take the left hand backwards and try to hold the right thigh with it. Keep the spine erect.
• Remain in this position for 5-15 seconds.
• Repeat the same in reverse by twisting the spine to the right side.

Benefits of this asana :

• This asana stimulates appetite.
• It is very much useful in constipation and dyspepsia.
• It awakens Kundalini and stabilizes Chandranadi.
• This asana improves liver efficiency and removes debility of kidney.
• It makes the spine elastic. It massages the abdominal muscles and organs.
• It is very beneficial for the muscle of back and shoulder.
• It adjusts and corrects the displacement of the vertebrae, rejuvenating the blood circulation in that part of the body.
• Therapeutic for asthma and infertility.
• It helps one in practicing Pashchimottanasana.

Remember :

• Some persons may experience difficulty in practicing it. if they can not hold the left by right hand they should hold the ankle.
• While twisting backward twist the backbone turning well.
• before resorting to the practice of this asana practice Vakrasana.

Contraindication : People who have stiffness in spine should avoid it.