Last updated: December 21, 2023
What Does
Supta Matsyendrasana Mean?
Supta Matsyendrasana is a beginner's yoga pose and a restorative posture that relaxes the body and mind. The name is derived from the Sanskrit supta, meaning "supine," and asana, meaning "posture." Matsyendra was a yogi and student of the Hindu god, Shiva.
In this pose, the practitioner lies down on the back and brings one knee toward the chest. Pressing the bent leg with the opposite palm, the torso twists gently so that the knee comes to rest on the outer side of the resting leg.
Supta Matsyendrasana is also called supine spinal twist pose or reclined spinal twist pose in English.
Yogapedia Explains Supta Matsyendrasana
Also called supta jathara parivartanasana, supta Matsyendrasana is recommended for improving mobility. The pose promotes spinal flexibility, supports the function of abdominal organs, improves digestion, and is effective for relieving stress-related headaches.
The mental benefits of supta matsyendrasana include:
- Promotes calmness
- Relieves mental fatigue
- Soothes the mind
- Rejuvenates the body and the mind
- Helps keep the mind in the present
In spiritual practice, supta Matsyendrasana stimulates the svadisthana (spleen or sacral) chakra, which is associated with creativity, confidence, self-esteem and sexuality. Balancing this chakra leads to broader emotional balance.
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Synonyms
Supta Jathara Parivartanasana