Posts Tagged ‘MATSYASANA’

GROW TALLER WITH YOGA

Sunday, December 26th, 2010

By Dr. Rita Khanna

The entire human organism is controlled by the hormones. Every system, every organ, every tissue, every cell is guided in its functioning by hormones. Any imbalance results in disease. In children, various hormones, many minerals, and nutrients play the role in good height growth. Hormones are the products secreted by the endocrine glands. The endocrine glands are ductless glands, which discharge their internal secretions directly into the blood stream, and greatly influence the relationship between our mind and body.

Various, ductless glands of the body are the pineal, the pituitary, the thyroid, the parathyroid, the thymus, the adrenals, pancreas, ovaries, and testicles. Height, stature, the shape of the face, the appearance, intelligence, bodily development, the complexion, the color and characteristic differences between men and women, such as the temper, the voice, the growth of the hair, mental and physical capacity, the formation of the body, and even the emotions are regulated by the functioning of these glands.

HUMAN GROWTH HORMONES (HGH)

HGH is a substance produced by a gland in the brain, called the pituitary gland. This gland is often called the master gland because it controls many of the other glands in the body. It is about the size of a pea, and it lies above the roof of the mouth, beneath the brain. Growth hormone prompts the liver to make a substance, called insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1).

These growth factors, along with growth hormone itself, travel through the bloodstream and cause growth and development to occur throughout the body. Major organs that synthesize IGF-1 are the human placenta, heart, lung, kidney, liver, pancreas, spleen, small intestines, testes, ovaries, large intestines, brain, bone, and pituitary. Improper secretions of the pituitary gland, and shortage of hormones, may result in abnormal growth.

GROWTH PLATE

Bow pose - yogaThe growth plate is the area of growing tissue, near the end of the long bones in children and adolescents. Each long bone has at least two growth plates – one at each end. The growth plate determines the future length and shape of the mature bone. When growth is complete, sometimes during adolescence, the growth plates close, and are replaced by solid bone. Whether a growth plate is still open, or not, can only be known through an X-ray. For those whose growth plates are still open, an increased amount of human growth hormone can lead to height increase. Growth hormone does not only serve to increase children’s height, it also helps transform fat into muscle. It helps to build up and maintain bones, and to maintain other organ functions.

yoga instructor certificationYOGA INCREASES YOUR GROWTH HORMONES OR HGH

Yoga is the safest way to boost human growth hormones, without any side-effects. The proper growth and functioning, of the various parts of the body, is possible only when there is a balanced secretion of all these hormones. Asanas balance the hormonal secretions from the various glands and affect the function of the pituitary, as do various breathing exercises that stimulate the brain. Any Asana, where the head is lower than the heart, will result in increased blood flow to the brain, and benefit the pituitary gland and its functions.

YOGA ASANAS FOR HEIGHT

fish pose - yoga• Asanas, recommended for increasing height, are Tadasana, Trikonasana Suryanamaskara, Shavasana, Sarvangasana, Matsyasana, Halasana, Paschimottanasana, Dhanurasana, Chakrasana, Sethubandhasana, Vajrasana, Shashankasana, and Usthrasana. They maximize the harmonious interaction of the endocrine hormones, secreted by the pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, and adrenal glands during the adolescent growth spurt. Minute concentrations of vital endocrine secretions, including growth hormone from the pituitary, calcitonin from the parathyroids, and thyroxin from the thyroid gland, control the rate and extent of physical growth and metabolism.

• Dynamic and static Asanas, such as Pada-hastasana, Paschimottanasana, Halasana, Yoga- mudra, Matsyasana, and yoga teacher certification course Supta- vajrasana, which exert a powerful stretching effect upon the vertebro-spinal axis, hips and legs, profoundly influence the nervous and arterial plexuses, supplying and innervating the epiphyseal growth plates of the spine and long bones (femur and tibia). They promote maximal nutrition, and contribute to the development of the skeleton, before fusion of the epiphyses occurs – usually by the 16th year.

• Pranayama, such as Bhramari and Ujjayi, are very relaxing to the brain. When the human mind is relaxed and stress-free, it will increase the production of Human Growth Hormone (HGH).

• Besides Asanas and Pranayamas, proper diet for the bones and muscles is a must. It should include water, protein, become a yoga teachercarbohydrates, iodine, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron.

• An adequate quantity of sleep is also required to increase the height, and makes the body stronger. During deep sleep, growth hormones, produced by your pituitary gland, are released into your blood stream, and travel through your body, causing the thickening and lengthening of your bones.

• Do not forget to laugh, because laughter has numerous healing powers, and is also the best medicine for generating Human Growth Hormone.

Below is a technique of Sethu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose) for height growth:

yoga posture alignmentTECHNIQUE

• Spread mat or double-folded blanket on a flat ground.

• Now, lie down straight on your back.

• Bend each leg, at the knee, one-by-one.

• Both knees should touch each other.

• The heels and the toes should also touch each other.

• Take the heels quite close to the buttocks.

• Feet flat on the floor.

• Keep your hands, by your sides, parallel to the ground.

• By pressing the palms on the ground, lift the waist up.

• The middle part of the body should be lifted up, as much as possible, and it should be supported by both hands.

• The fingers, of the hands, should remain on the outer side, and the thumbs should point inwards.

• The waist should be supported with the hands.

• The arms, between the shoulders and the elbows, remain parallel to the ground, and the forearms, between the elbows and wrists, remain vertical to the ground, as a pole.

• Now, very slowly – straighten your legs one-by-one, with the right leg first, then the left leg.

• Both – thighs, knees, calf muscles, heels, and toes of the feet should touch each other.

• There should not be any angle at the knee joint.

• In this way, the shape of the whole body will be like a fly over a bridge.

• Hold this pose for as long as you are comfortable.

• When releasing the Bridge Pose, slowly fold the legs first, one-by-one, then remove the hands and put them on the sides of the body; slowly put the body back down on the floor.

• Relax.

BENEFITS

The Sethu Bandhasana enhances the functioning of the endocrine system, which regulates secretion of the hormones. It increases flexibility and elasticity of the body, strengthens the lower back, abdominal muscles, and opens the chest. By the practice of this Asana, the vertebrae of the spinal column, shoulders, upper arm, both forearms, elbows, wrists, palms, fingers, neck, back, waist, thighs, knees, and the calf muscles, experience energy and vitality. By its regular practice, one becomes free from psychological abnormality, if any; and obtains a life filled with good thoughts, hopes, and joy.

If one follows the above Yogic lifestyle, religiously, which includes regular Asanas, Pranayama, adequate sleep, and a healthy diet – one can ensure maximal growth and development of the body.

AUM SHANTI

If you feel inspired by this article, feel free to publish it in your Newsletter or on your Website. Our humble request is to please include the Resource as follows:

Courtesy: Dr. Rita Khanna’s Yogashaastra Studio.

A popular studio that helps you find natural solutions for complete health.

Also conducts online Yoga Courses & Naturopathy Guidance.

Mobile: + 919849772485

Ph:-91-40-65173344

Email: email hidden; JavaScript is required

Website: www.yogashaastra.in

Dr. Rita Khanna

Dr. Rita Khanna is a well-known name in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. She was initiated into this discipline over 25 years ago by world famous Swami Adyatmananda of Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh (India).

She believes firmly that Yoga is a scientific process, which helps us to lead a healthy and disease-free life. She is also actively involved in practicing alternative medicines like Naturopathy. Over the years, she has been successfully practicing these therapies and providing succour to several chronic and terminally ill patients through Yoga, Diet and Naturopathy. She is also imparting Yoga Teachers Training.

At present, Dr. Rita Khanna is running a Yoga Studio in Secunderabad (Hyderabad, India).

YOGA FOR NAVEL DISPLACEMENT

Sunday, May 9th, 2010

Dr. Rita Khanna

In Northern India, navel displacement is called Nabhi Chadna / Tharan Chadna. Just as a misalignment occurs within the spinal cord, so a misalignment of the navel and stomach muscles (rectus abdominus) also occurs. It is the condition when the navel centre shifts. In most cases, the navel will take a move in either an upward or downward direction; only sometimes, does a sideways movement occur. The displacement is directly connected with the navel, nerves, stomach muscles, and movement of Prana, and will affect each of these in some manner. Normally, this problem corresponds to a weakening of the ligaments related to large intestine.The problem is said to occur more in women, and may produce unaccountable menstrual pain and excessive or scanty bleeding. The ailments caused by this particular trouble usually involve only the abdominal area.

CAUSES

Uneven walking, running, unbalanced jumping, picking up heavy objects, a sudden twisting or bending movement, sexual activity.

SYMPTOMS

Symptoms are varied, according to the direction of movement. For instance, if the navel has moved up, there is a chance of constipation, vomiting, or feeling of nausea. If the navel has moved down, then it leads to diarrhoea. Whichever way it moves, there is always pain in the abdominal area, which may extend into the back, buttocks, thighs, and calves. After the navel has shifted once, it is a problem which occurs frequently thereafter, unless Yogic precautionary practices are started.

HOW TO DIAGNOSIS THE CORRECT ALIGNMENT

• The misalignment can be detected, by using string to measure the distance from the large toe of both feet, to the navel centre. Lie down on a flat surface - facing upwards. If there is a difference in the length of these two measurements, it indicates a shift in the navel position. However, when measuring the position with string, care should be taken to ensure that the body is correctly aligned.

• The original position can also be detected, in some people, by feeling for a pulse in the area. Lie on a flat surface - facing upwards, and press your thumb in the navel. If there is a throbbing sensation under the navel, it means the pulse and navel are together; the position is correct.

• In men, the measurement can be taken from the right, and left nipples, to the navel. If disparity in distance is there, it indicates the incorrect position.

YOGA FOR NAVEL DISPLACEMENT

Correct Yogic treatment, for displacement and its adjustment, eliminates this trouble within a short period, say 3 to 4 days. The Asanas that should be mainly practiced are those, which give equal backward stretch to the rectus abdominus muscles. Asanas, such as Uttanpadasana, Bhujangasana, Matsyasana, Kandharasana, Supta vajrasana, Chakrasana, Dhanurasana, Makarasana, Naukasana, and Matsyakridasana, will give relief. Shankhaprakshalana asanas can also be effective. No forward bending Asanas can be practiced, except Shashankasana and Marjariasana, in some cases. After the cure, practice of these Asanas should continue, so that stomach and back muscles strengthen and prevent further recurrence. Following is a method of Uttanpadasana. It is very simple and easy to do.

METHOD OF UTTANPADASANA

• Lie down straight on your back, with the palms flat on the floor, legs straight, and toes together.

• Inhale, and raise both legs upwards - up to 30 degrees - and hold it for 10 seconds.

• Then, 60 degrees; again hold it for ten seconds.

• Then, 90 degrees; and hold it again for 10 seconds.

• Then, in the same way, come back while exhaling.

• While returning, place the feet slowly on the floor - avoiding any jerks.

• After resting for a while, repeat the exercise 3 to 6 times.

This Asana helps in keeping the dislocated navel in its proper place.

NOTE

Those suffering from acute backache - should practice it using one leg at a time.

BENEFITS

• This Asana strengthens the intestines and makes them free of diseases. It removes constipation, gas formation, obesity, and improves the digestive system.

• It is useful in preventing displacement of the navel, heart disease, stomach pain, and respiratory problems.

• It is especially useful for backache - when performed using one leg at a time.

SOME OTHER METHODS

• Normally, elders have good knowledge about this problem. Some people cure this by massaging the area near the navel. Make sure they have proper knowledge of massage’ otherwise, further damage may result.

• Another massage technique is applied to different areas of the legs, corresponding to acupuncture points. When this method is used, a piece of string is tied around the big toe, “to keep things in place.”

• Another method involves an herbal pack placed on the stomach.

• These latter methods are local Indian methods, usually practiced in the villages. They provide good treatment, but fail to prevent recurrence. They can be used successfully in conjunction with Asanas.

AUM SHANTI

If you feel inspired by this article, feel free to publish it in your Newsletter or on your Website. Our humble request is to please include the Resource as follows: -

Courtesy: Dr. Rita Khanna’s Yogashaastra Studio.

A popular studio that helps you find natural solutions for complete health.

Mobile: + 919849772485

Ph:-91-40-65173344

Email: email hidden; JavaScript is required

Website: www.yogashaastra.in

Dr. Rita Khanna

Dr. Rita Khanna is a well-known name in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. She was initiated into this discipline over 25 years ago by world famous Swami Adyatmananda of Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh (India).

She believes firmly that Yoga is a scientific process, which helps us to lead a healthy and disease-free life. She is also actively involved in practicing alternative medicines like Naturopathy. Over the years, she has been successfully practicing these therapies and providing succour to several chronic and terminally ill patients through Yoga, Diet and Naturopathy. She is also imparting Yoga Teachers Training.

At present, Dr. Rita Khanna is running a Yoga Studio in Secunderabad (Hyderabad, India).

DISORDERS OF MALE REPRODUCTIVE SYSTEM (MRS)

Sunday, April 18th, 2010

By Dr. Rita Khanna

The male reproductive anatomy includes internal and external structures. Most of the male reproductive system is located outside the body. The external structures of the MRS are the penis, the scrotum, and the testicles. The internal organs of the MRS, called accessory organs, include vas deferens, ejaculatory ducts, urethra, seminal vesicles, prostate gland, and bulbo-urethral glands.

The functions of the MRS are:

• To produce, maintain, and transport sperm (the male reproductive cells) and protective fluid (semen)

• To discharge sperm within the female reproductive tract

• To produce and secrete male sex hormones

HOW DOES MRS FUNCTION

The entire male reproductive system is dependent on hormones, which are chemicals that stimulate, or regulate, the activity of cells or organs. The primary hormones, involved in the functioning of the MRS, are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone. FSH and LH are produced by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain.

FSH is necessary for sperm production (spermatogenesis), and LH stimulates the production of testosterone, which is necessary to continue the process of spermatogenesis. Testosterone is also important in the development of male characteristics, such as muscle mass and strength, fat distribution, bone mass, and sex drive.

MALE REPRODUCTIVE DISORDERS

• There may be some defects in the genitals, or in excep¬tional cases, genitals may not exist.

• The amount of spermatozoa in the semen, may be lesser than required, or may not be there at all.

• Physical incapacity or non-existence of procreation capacity or aversion.

• In the majority of the cases, one may not really find anything lacking in the procreation system of the male; but because of the mental tension, or due to advanced age, the procreation system may have lost interest.

• The most complicated problem of MRS is incapacity of the semen to procreate.

• Out of all the problems, one third are as a result of spermatozoa being almost nil in the male semen.

DETAILS OF THE CONTENTS OF SEMEN

Normal healthy semen has following details:

1. Quantity: between 2 to 5 ml (normal estimate is 3 to 5 ml)

2. Quantum of spermatozoa: 60 to 120 million per ml.

3. Motility: 80% to 90%.

4. Morphology: 80% normal (oval head, neck and tail)

5. PH: acidic.

6. Liquefaction: +ve

7. Fructose: +ve

SEMEN EXAMINATION

The only really satisfactory way to produce a semen sample, for examination, is by masturbation into a special container or in chemical laboratory. The reason for this is that most of the sperm in an ejaculate are in the first portion. If one wants to have a correct examination, and get correct chemical results, as well as get proper estimate of actual situation, it is essential that at least 4 to 5 days before getting the specimen for examination, there should be no wastage of semen. Similarly, one should not encourage the specimen of semen, brought in by use of a condom, which are lubricated with spermicides. It will kill sperms and will not have a correct examination.

Secondly, it is necessary that after the first examination of semen, a second sample should be obtained 15 days later, and after thorough examination, one should arrive at a definite decision. Only then, proper treatment should be obtained. The sperm in a specimen of semen gets affected both in quantity and in capability of procreation, if a person is habituated to take intoxicants like liquor, smoking, or chewing tobacco. Insufficient intake of nutritive food, too hot a climate, or staying in a place where it is tremendously cold, also affects.

OBSERVATION ON THE CHEMICAL CONDITION OF THE SEMEN

• In some cases, either both, or one testicle, may be under-developed or immature, or these may remain in the abdomen, only. This condition is known as cryptorchidism. In such cases, a male, although he has had a perfect conjugal and sexual partner¬ship, will be incapable of procreation. Under such circumstances, an operation could bring fruitful results.

• Varicoceles are tortuous dilated blood vessels in the scrotum (just like having varicose veins in the legs). These veins are dilated because the blood does not drain properly from them. These dilated veins allow extra blood to pool in the scrotum, which has a negative effect on the sperm production.

• One of the principal reasons for insufficient spermatozoa, in male semen, which could result in non-procreation, is high temperature in the internal secreting glands of male reproductive system.

• If there are glands or nodules, which hinder the forceful and speedy ejection of semen, this could also be one of the main reasons for incapability of procreation.

• There can be some hindrance or disease inside the tube of the gentile organ like urethritis, epididymitis, prostatitis, etc.

• It is also possible that some hindrance, or disease, in the testicles may result in plenty of blood coming out of the genital organ, which may result in weakness, and procre¬ation may not be possible.

• Persons who work in the vicinity of hot kilns, put on very tight underwear, or take a bath with extra hot water, have higher temperature of tes¬ticles (hyperthermia) than required. Over a period of time it can lead to sexual disorder, but can be treated by hypothermia (Abnormally low body temperature).

• Persons, whose quantum of spermatozoa is found lesser than required, can cure the same by this treatment of hypothermia. However, those who exhibit no sper¬matozoa are in the condition of azoospermia (no sperm count); hypothermia will not be of much use.

• For the treatment of hypothermia the special underwear could be used. It is called thermal underwear and is excellent for keeping the heat in your body and gives excellent comfort even in icy arctic cold weather conditions.

• On medical advice – if long term use of such underwear is being made then an appreciably big difference in number of spermatozoa would be possible. You can remove such special underwear only at time of having a bath or at the time of sexual intercourse; it is advisable to put on this special underwear for the rest of the period and for as long as possible. This is a non-chemical treatment. The underwear is easy to put on and is light in weight. No sexual disorder is created by its use, and this is widely recognized.

• If the prostate gland has grown to a huge extent, it can create disorganization of sexual life. It is likely that the male sexual life will be imbalanced. If a couple has no children, and if they are getting treatment, they should ensure that the personal lifestyle of the male should be analyzed, and the problems observed, therein, should be first solved.

• Check up whether sexual life has an ebb – as a result of having no children. It is essential that sufficient investigation should be undertaken for this cause. If a married couple remains childless for a pretty long period, there is a possibility of internal strife and insufficiency of coitus.

• Impotence indicates that one has to spend a long time in the erection of phallus, the genital organs may be completely inactive, the ejection of the semen may take longer time, or semen may not get ejected at all. Normally, such occurrences are more as a result of psychologi¬cal reasons, and it is advisable to get the solution to this problem by psychiatric treatment.

• Besides the above, patients suffering from diabetes, renal disease, trauma or consumption of strong medicines for longer periods may also get affected by impotency. One can go in for psychological treatment, Medical aids and medicines and vitalizing by mechanical means or by penile implants.

• If a person remains ever ready for sexual intercourse (libido), and indulges in abnormally excessive sexual activities, he may, in the long run, stop procreating.

• The male genital organ should essen¬tially be capable of full excitement so that the organ should remain absolutely straight and erect – then can only one enjoy the intercourse in a proper manner. If the genital organ is comparatively very short, it is known as microfilms. If the genital organ is having too many bends in it, this is termed hemi-hyper-trophy. The non-stimulation of the phallus is the main cause of impotence. People could have insufficiency of erection of the genital organ, due to mental fear, worry, trauma, diabetes, etc.

• Male procreation problem can also arise because of the addiction to alcohol, narcotics, tobacco, and anti¬hypertensive drugs.

YOGIC MANAGEMENT

Yogic philosophy maintains that most of the diseases are due to insufficient life force, either in the body as a whole, or a blockage of life force, to one part of the body. When the whole body has lowered life force, the result is a lowered vitality level, poor health, and susceptibility to infection. Yoga practice increases the working capacity of the body to a huge extent.

Yes, you can definitely correct your impotence, and also get stronger erections, if you practice certain Yoga poses regularly. These includes Surya¬namaskara (12 rounds) each morning at Sunrise, Trikonasana, Sarvangasana, Matsyasana, Halasana, Paschimottanasan, Bhujangasana, Shalbhasana, Dhanurasana, Chakrasana, Ardha-Matsyendrasana Yoga¬mudra, Uttitthpashchimottanasana, Padahastasana, Tolungasana, Mahamudra, Vajrasana, and Shavasana.

Regular practice of these Asanas can help to increase the blood circulation to the scrotum. This increased blood flow removes and remedies the biological, or chemical, imbalances that might be causing impotence.

In addition, the practice of Bhastrika Pranayama, Sukhpurvaka Pranayama, Yoganidra, as well as Meditation will help you to correct problems, such as premature ejaculation, and also help in better concentration.

CONCLUSION

It must be remembered that successful impregnation, fertilization, and subsequent pregnancy, always involves the cooperation and interaction of husband and wife as one. There are always cases of infertility in marriage. If the couple tries to have mutual understanding, goodwill, and equipoise, then the majority of the problems of procreation by males can be solved. For this reason, both partners are recommended to adopt a Yoga program and practice it together.

Keep patience – nothing is impossible!

AUM SHANTI

If you feel inspired by this article, feel free to publish it in your Newsletter or on your Website. Our humble request is to please include the Resource as follows: -

Courtesy: Dr. Rita Khanna’s Yogashaastra Studio.

A popular studio that helps you find natural solutions for complete health.

Mobile: + 919849772485

Ph:-91-40-65173344

Email: email hidden; JavaScript is required

Website: www.yogashaastra.in

Dr. Rita Khanna

Dr. Rita Khanna is a well-known name in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. She was initiated into this discipline over 25 years ago by world famous Swami Adyatmananda of Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh (India).

She believes firmly that Yoga is a scientific process, which helps us to lead a healthy and disease-free life. She is also actively involved in practicing alternative medicines like Naturopathy. Over the years, she has been successfully practicing these therapies and providing succour to several chronic and terminally ill patients through Yoga, Diet and Naturopathy. She is also imparting Yoga Teachers Training.

At present, Dr. Rita Khanna is running a Yoga Studio in Secunderabad (Hyderabad, India).

MATSYASANA (FISH POSE) FOR CERVICAL SPONDYLOSIS

Monday, February 22nd, 2010

By Dr. Rita Khanna

Cervical Spondylosis means, loss of forward curvature (Lordosis) of the spine. The natural shape of the human neck is a backward curve. We rarely have the habit of working with keeping the head, neck, chest, and spinal column in one line. We habitually tend to keep our neck in a forward curve when we work, chat, watch television, or sleep. The fallout of this habit is Cervical Spondylosis. It is also related to wear and tear – due to one’s profession, faulty postures, using a thick pillow, the habit of reading or watching TV in a lying position, mental tension, a sedentary lifestyle, or lack of exercise.

The spine becomes straight, due to repeated pressure exerted on the spine. As a result of this, the internal structure of the disk gets deranged, resulting in the loss of the substance that cushions the disc. The movement of the neck shoulders and back becomes very difficult and painful. To cure this problem, one needs to keep in mind the curvature of the neck, and give it extension as often as possible. For that, Matsyasana is very much beneficial.

DESCRIPTION

The word, Matsya, means fish. This posture is dedicated to Matsya, the Fish and the incarnation of the Hindu God Vishnu, the source of maintainer of the Universe and of all things. It is related that once upon a time, the whole earth had become corrupt and was about to be overwhelmed by a Universal Flood. Lord Vishnu assumed the form of a fish to save the world from the Flood.

FULL STORY

There once lived a wise king named, Manu. One day, when Manu was bathing in the river, a little fish sought shelter in his cupped palms. “Save me, it said, “and some day I shall help you.” Amazed – Manu placed the fish in a pot of water. Overnight, the fish outgrew the pot. So, Manu placed it in a well. Very shortly, it grew too large to live in the well. Astonished, Manu placed this magic fish in a large lake, where it again became too large. Then, Manu led it the river Ganga. The fish continued to grow. Manu now realized that this fish could be none other than the great Lord Vishnu. Reverentially, he took it to the ocean. Pleased with Manu’s dedication and devotion, the fish confirmed that it was, indeed, a form of Lord Vishnu. It warned Manu of an approaching flood, which would drown the whole earth. It instructed him to build a ship and to load it with the eggs and the young of plants, insects, birds, mammals, and all other living creatures. Manu wisely followed the divine counsel and the world was saved.

DEFINITION

Matsyasana is a lying (supine) pose, and gives a backward stretch to the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar regions of the spine, and expands the chest fully. It is a counter posture of Sarvangasana. Those who are forbidden to perform Sarvangasana (the Shoulder stand), can perform this particular posture, especially those who are suffering from Cervical Spondylosis. For them, Matsyasana is boon. It can be performed by sitting in Padmasana, Vajrasana, or with the legs straight position. In all the three alternate poses of Matsyasana, the crown of the head will touch the ground. This posture fills the lungs with air and increases lung capacity, just as a fish fills its gills with air.

TECHNIQUE 1

• Sit in Padmasana pose.

• Slowly take the help of your elbows; lie down on your back completely.

• Place the hands down beside the head, fingers pointing towards the shoulders.

• Taking the help of your hands, inhale, lift the chest slightly, tilt the head backward, and place the top of the head on the ground.

• Deepen the arch, by lifting the chest and neck up.

• Catch hold of your big toes, with the index and middle fingers, making a ring with the thumb.

• Place the elbows on the floor; knees must be on the floor.

• Hold the position as long as it is comfortable and continue normal breathing.

• When done, release the toes; taking the help of your hands, straighten your head.

• With the support of your elbows, sit up in Padmasana. Then, lie down and relax in Shavasana.

TECHNIQUE 2

This variation is in Vajrasana position and follows the same technique as described above. Keep the knees touching each other in Vajrasana posture; the hands should be placed on the thighs.

TECHNIQUE 3

This simple variation of Matsyasana can be done by the young, as well as the elderly people, without any worry, and will give all the advantages of traditional Matsyasana.

• Lie on your back on the floor with your knees bent; feet on the floor.

• Inhale, lift your hips slightly off the floor, and put your hands under your tailbone, with your palms facing the floor – your thumbs touching each other.

• Then, rest your buttocks on the backs of your hands (don’t lift them off your hands as you perform this pose). Try to adjust your forearms, and elbows, under the spine properly.

• While pressing your forearms and elbows firmly against the floor, inhale, draw your head backward, and place the top of the head on the floor.

• Deepen the arch by lifting the chest up.

• Your weight should rest on your elbows. There should be a minimal amount of weight on your head.

• Breathe normally all the while, keeping your legs and lower torso relaxed.

• To come out of the pose, exhale, lift your head, and place it gently back down – then release the arms.

BEGINNERS TIP

• Sometimes, beginners strain their neck in this pose. If you feel any discomfort in your neck or throat, either lower your chest slightly toward the floor, or put a thickly folded blanket under the back of your head.

• People suffering from heart disease, hernia, any spinal problems, or pregnant women, should practice this Asana under the guidance of an expert.

BENEFITS

According to a traditional text, Matsyasana is considered as the destroyer of all diseases.

• Blood circulation is increased as your cervical, thoracic, and lumber regions are stretched. Your back muscles are also strengthened. It is beneficial to those suffering from cervical spondylosis, neck pain, and stiffness.

• The Asana does wonders for your respiratory system; when you assume this position, your chest is stretched open and your bronchial tubes are widened to promote easier breathing. In time, your rib cage will expand, and this will also encourage you to breathe more deeply. It is good for asthma and bronchitis.

• The name of the posture derives from the fact that – if you adopt the position in water, you will float quite easily.

• This is helpful for swimmers who can then hold their breath under water for longer periods.

• Pressure on the neck also works on the thyroid gland and the parathyroid gland (which regulates the level of calcium in the body). Metabolism balances and immune system is boosted.

• Most of abdominal and stomach problems are also corrected as your intestines and abdominal muscles are stretched and toned. It is good in constipation and for bleeding piles.

• The pressure on your neck stimulates the energy centre that regulates the voice – thus improving voice quality.

• It tones the nervous system, the pelvic organs, and the nerves connected with sexual functions. It also helps prevent and remove disorders of the reproductive system.

Om Shanti

If you feel inspired by this article, feel free to publish it in your Newsletter or on your Website. Our humble request is to please include the Resource as follows: Courtesy: Dr. Rita Khanna’s Yogashaastra Studio. A popular studio that helps you find natural solutions for complete health.

Mobile: + 919849772485

Ph:-91-40-65173344

Email: email hidden; JavaScript is required

Website: www.yogashaastra.in

Dr. Rita Khanna

Dr. Rita Khanna is a well-known name in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. She was initiated into this discipline over 25 years ago by world famous Swami Adyatmananda of Sivananda Ashram in Rishikesh (India).

She believes firmly that Yoga is a scientific process, which helps us to lead a healthy and disease-free life. She is also actively involved in practicing alternative medicines like Naturopathy. Over the years, she has been successfully practicing these therapies and providing succour to several chronic and terminally ill patients through Yoga, Diet and Naturopathy. She is also imparting Yoga Teachers Training.

At present, Dr. Rita Khanna is running a Yoga Studio in Secunderabad (Hyderabad, India).

SEARCH