Matsyasana (IAST: Matsyāsana) or Fish pose is a reclining back-bending asana in hatha yoga and modern yoga as exercise. It is commonly considered a counterasana to Sarvangasana, or shoulder stand, specifically within the context of the Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga Primary Series.

Etymology and origins

The name comes from the Sanskrit words matsya (मत्स्य) meaning "fish" and asana (आसन) meaning "posture" or "seat". The asana is medieval, described in the 17th century Gheraṇḍa Saṃhitā 2.21.

Description

The asana is a backbend, where the practitioner lies on his or her back and lifts the heart (anahata) chakra by rising up on the elbows and drawing the shoulders back. The neck is lengthened, and the crown of the head Sahasrara chakra is "pointed" toward the 'wall' behind the practitioner. As the arch of the back deepens with practice, and the heart and throat open further, the top of the head may brush the ground, but no weight should rest upon it.

Variations

The pose can be supported with a bolster under the back, and with a cushion under the knees.