What is Half Lord Of The Fishes Pose?

Half lord of the fishes pose, or ardha matsyendrasana in Sanskrit, is a beginner's seated spinal twist. While it certainly improves spinal flexibility, its main benefit is that it increases circulation to the abdominal organs and improves digestion.

Instructions

• Begin sitting with the legs outstretched.
• Bend the right leg and place the sole of the foot on the floor outside of the left knee. Bend the left leg, bringing the foot near the right buttock.
• Inhale and reach the left arm up.
• Exhale and twist to the right. Bend the left arm and press the elbow against the outside of the right knee, twisting deeper. Look over the right shoulder.
• Breathe while holding the pose.
• Inhale and untwist. Change sides.

Cautions

• Avoid if there is hip or spinal injury

Benefits of Half Lord Of The Fishes Pose

• Stretches and tones the spine
• Improves flexibility
• Improves circulation to the abdominal organs
• Stimulates digestion
• Promotes blood flow to the pelvic area
• Relieves back pain