Half Lord of the Fishes Pose

Ardha Matsyendrāsana (Sanskrit: अर्धमत्स्येन्द्रासन), Half Lord of the Fishes Pose, or Half Spinal Twist Pose is an asana. The pose is named after the great yogi, Matsyendranath, who according to some texts is considered a founding father of modern yoga practices. The name comes from the Sanskrit words ardha meaning "half", matsya meaning "fish", eendra meaning "king", and asana (आसन ) meaning "posture" or "seat". Ardha Matsyendrāsana allows the spine to be twisted all the way from the base of the spine to the very top.

  • Stimulates the liver and kidneys
  • Stretches the shoulders, hips, and neck
  • Energizes the spine
  • Stimulates the digestive fire in the belly
  • Relieves menstrual discomfort, fatigue, sciatica, and backache
  • Therapeutic for asthma and infertility
  • Traditional texts say that Ardha Matsyendrasana increases appetite, destroys most deadly diseases, and awakens kundalini.