Malsyasana (Fish Posture)

                                                       Malsyasana

Those who are experts in doing this asana, it is said, posses the ability to float in water just like a fish. But it requires some additional techniques also. So after studying this asana don’t go and jump into the deep water bodies.

Sit in Padmasana. (By this time, I think you should have gained mastery in Padmasana). By pressing the knees on either side, slowly lie down backwards. While doing so the position of padmasana should not change. The legs should be firmly fixed on to the sheet. Pressing down the knees raise the upper body and head from the ground curving backwards, and using both hands fix the centre of head on the sheet. (See picture). Now your hips and legs are the only portions touching the sheet. Lift and curve (Inwards) the chest as much as you can. While doing this take care that the head would not slip out of position. Extend both hands forward and hold the toes of either leg. In this position take deep breaths through the nose. In the beginning while you practice try to take 5 breaths. As you become an expert take 20-25 breaths. This is Malsyasana. For finishing the asana come back to padmasana posture, from where you started. It is a rule that after doing Sarvangasana, the next asana should be Malsyasana. Give 1/3 time of Sarvangasana to Malsyasana.

Benefits:-

1.The head and the upper body gets enough oxygenated blood.

2.The phlegm firmly coated inside the lungs and bronchial tubes, becomes loose and eventually goes out completely.

3. It is said that this asana is a proper treatment for Asthma and Bronchitis.

4. It is effective for indigestion and several other diseases of the stomach.