Matsyasana Anatomy & Physiology

• Provides a strong extension to the cervical spine;
• Opens up the shoulder joints (external rotation)
• Stretches the muscles of the chest, psoas muscles, intercostals, and abdomen.
• Strengthens the muscles of the upper back (trapezius, rhomboids, levator scapulae);
• Increases circulation to spinal nerves when pose is released;
• Pineal and pituitary glands stimulated by increased blood supply;
• Locking of the chin stimulates thyroid and parathyroid glands;
• Digestive system stimulated during inhalation and by activation of the pancreas (greater release of digestive hormones).

About the Author

Like many of us, Sue Wright first came to yoga to improve her flexibility and general wellbeing.  Now completely "won over" by the transformative power of yoga, Sue has undertaken teacher training at the Australian Institute of Yoga Therapy (CAE) and is now teaching in Melbourne