Ardha means half. Matsyendra is one of many Siddhas or masters who where accomplished Yogis mentioned in the medieval Yoga text the Hatha-Yoga-Pradipika. This posture posture is traditionally called the Spinal Twist because the spinal column is twisted gently.
Synchronisation of Breath
Exhale while twisting the entire body.
Have normal breathing while maintaining final posture.
Inhale while returning to the normal position.
Exhale while twisting the entire body.
Have normal breathing while maintaining final posture.
Inhale while returning to the normal position.
"Keeping the abdominal region at ease like the back, bending the left leg, place it on the right thigh; then place on this the elbow of the right hand, and place the face on the palm of the right hand, and fix the gaize between the eye-brows. This is called Matsyendra-posture."
(Ardha-matsyendra-asana) Instruction:
1 Sit in any comfortable cross-legged position.
2 Straighten the legs out in front. Bend the right knee and bring the heel of the right foot close to the left hip.
3 Inhale and bend the left knee upward and place the left foot flat on the floor to the right of the right leg with the ankle touching the right thigh.
4 While turning the spine to the left straighten the right arm bringing it around to the outside of the left knee and grasp the left foot with the right hand.
5 Turn your head as far as possible to the left and bend the left arm behind your back. Keep your spine, neck and head aligned and continue to exert effort at turning to the left.
6 Repeat the posture the other side by reversing directions 2-6.
Benefits of Ardha Matsyendra Asana
Tones up pancreas, adrenal, thyroid and sex glands.
Abdominal muscles are strengthened.
Due to internal activation, disorders of kidneys, spleen, liver, stomach, intestine, bladder and pelvis are corrected.
Provides maximum flexibility to the spine.
Removes spinal pain and tones up spinal nerves.
Compresses abdominal area, thereby eliminating constipation and dyspepsia and improving digestion.
Protects against enlargement of prostrate and bladder.
Good for persons with weak kidneys experiencing urinary troubles.
Tones up sexual organs and greatly improves sexual performance of both men and women.