Ardha Matsyendrasana | Half Lord of the Fishes by Caroline Klebl

Ardha Matsyendrasana | Half Lord of the Fishes posture by yoga teacher Caroline Klebl

Ardha means half. This posture is dedicated to Matysendrasana. Matsyendra is translated as lord of the fishes. Matsyendra is traditionally considered to be the founder of hatha yoga.

Ardha Matsyendrasana is part of the intermediate series of ashtanga yoga. Ardha Matsyendrasana is entered from adho mukha shvanasana, the downward facing dog pose. On the exhaling breath hop the legs through the arms and place the pelvis on the floor. Bend the left leg under the right leg, placing the left knee on the floor and the left foot to the right of the right hip. Bend the right leg and place the sole of the right foot on the floor to the left of the left knee. Twist the torso to the right and place the left elbow to the right of the right knee. Then straighten the left arm and take hold of the inside of the right foot. Reach the right arm behind the body and take hold of the left hip. Rotate the head to the right and practice parshva drishti, look to the right. Breathe deeply for 5 to 10 breaths. Release the twist. Place the palms of the hands on the floor to either side of the hips. Inhale raise the legs and hips, exhale swing the legs back between the arms in chaturanga dandasana, four limbed staff pose. Inhale urdhva mukha shvanasana, upward facing dog pose. Exhale adho mukha shvanasana. Then practice Ardha Matyendrasana on the left side. Enjoy this wonderful yoga pose!