Fish Pose Matsyasana
On the back, press the forearms down and lift the chest into an arch until the crown of the head rests on the floor; the upper back works while the front of the body opens.
How to do it
Setup
On the back, legs straight and together, hands under the hips palms down, elbows tucked in.
Steps
- Press the forearms and elbows into the floor and lift the chest.
- Arch the upper back and lower the crown of the head lightly to the floor.
- Hold and breathe with the weight in the elbows, then lift the head and lower the chest.
Common mistakes
Weight dropping onto the head: the elbows carry it; the crown only touches. Arching from the lower back alone: lift through the chest and the upper back. Lowering the chest with the head still back: lift the head first, then come down.
Breathing
Breathe into the lifted chest, slow and even.
