Fish Pose

Matsyasana

Fish Pose is a finishing backbend that counters the shoulderstand sequence: in full Lotus the chest lifts and the crown of the head rests on the floor. It opens the throat and chest and releases the neck after the deep neck flexion of Shoulderstand and Plow. The bound legs anchor the arch.

Alignment cues

• From Lotus, arch back and set the crown on the floor
• Lift the chest high and open the throat
• Hold the feet and press the elbows down for support

Benefits

• Opens the chest and front of the throat
• Counterstretches after shoulderstand-family poses
• Improves upper back mobility

Modifications

• Rest the crown of the head lightly rather than bearing weight on it
• Support the upper back with a bolster