Ardha Matsyendrasana - Half Seated Spinal Twist
ARE-dah MOT-see-en-DRAHS-ah-nah.
Ardha = Half.
Matsya = Fish.
Endra = King.
Asana = Posture.
This posture is also known as the half lord of the fishes pose. This spinal twist will release tension through the pelvis and lower back, it will help to elongate the spine and align the energy centres between the base of the spine and the crown of the head, it will also enhance the flow of prana around the body.
How to Perform Ardha Matsyendrasana
Sit with both legs extended, cross your left leg over your right placing the sole of the left foot to the floor, beside the right thigh or hip. Direct the left knee straight up. Flex your right foot and draw the left knee in towards your body with the right arm. As you inhale lengthen your spine and as you exhale rotate around to the back. Breathe slowly lengthening the spine each time you inhale.
To move deeper into the pose bend the right knee and bring the right foot in towards the left hip. Sit tall and breathe slowly as you continue to rotate and release tension with each exhalation. Hold for five to ten complete breaths (or longer) and then repeat on the other side.
