Matsyasan

Assuming the Mukta Padmasana (i.e. without the crossing of the hands), lie supine, surrounding the head by both the elbows. This is Matsyasana, the destroyer of diseases

Note:- In the traditional pose of Matsyasana, we catch hold of toes with our hands and elbows are placed on the ground.
Technique :-

1. Sit in Padmasana.
   
   
2. Slowly take the help of your elbows to lie down on your back.
   
   
3. Slowly lie on your back completely.
   
   
4. Now with the help of elbows or palms bend your head backward and place middle of the head on the ground.
   
   
5. Catch hold of the toes with your index fingers and place the elbows on the ground.
   
   
6. While returning to original position, release the toes and taking the help of your hands straighten your head.
   
   
7. Now taking the help of elbow sit in padmasana.

Remember:-

1. This Asana is practised after Sarvangasana, hence, practise for one third of the time taken for Sarvangasana.
   
   
2. Do not bend your neck backward with a jerk.
   
   
3. While bending neck backward, the spine will be arched maximum.
   
   
4. While returning you can release your legs in sitting position or even in lying position.

Benefits and Limitations:-

1. As complementary Asana for Sarvangasana, this should be pracitsed soon after sarvangasana. This enhances the benefits achieved through Sarvangasana.