This stretch is very productive. Several benefits occur for the receiver and the results of Matsyendrasana...
This stretch is very productive. Several benefits occur for the receiver and the results of Matsyendrasana are attractive rewards for any fortunate recipient. I suggest that perhaps the most immediately noticeable and obvious outcome is the visible inspiration that the receiver exhibits. There is an undeniable delight for the receiver with thematsyendrasana procedure because of the simultaneous integration of the physical, emotional and psychological sensitivities.Physical awareness oscillates to become emotional awareness and vice versa. This is a powerful and welcomed dose of well-being for anyone indeed. Also, the receiver expresses enthusiasm because of the aesthetic simplicity of the asana’s execution. I have found that this exercise is a safe and recommended stretch for all ages including the elderly.When this asana is fully expressed, the receiver’s shoulder region is resting upon the surface of the mat/table and the shoulder is positioned diagonally across from the receiver’s knee. When expertly administered, the palm resting upon the shoulder chakra must not apply any counter- pressure at all while rotating the receiver’s spinal column on the first application. I teach that it is quite professional and pleasurable to simply allow your palm to rest upon the receiver’s shoulder chakra without applying any opposing intention.
Please never assume that the shoulder assembly can be fully secured to the surface of the mat/table. Please demonstrate finesse, particularly with the elderly, and allow the shoulder to rise up off the surface when necessary while rotation the spinal assemblies. Never force any application. Transmit casual energy and proceed always with elegance. Many are capable of achieving full expression and flexibility with Matsyendrasana yet for others a delicate progression is to be expected. Profound results manifest that even extend to the receiver’s spiritual dimension.
Those of us familiar with visceral yogic concepts such as Marmas [accessible spheres of bioelectric power], the FiveKoshas [ethereal/vibrational sheath-bodies] and Nadis [the streaming channels of living consciousness], understand the remarkably curative effects that Matsyendrasana procures by liberating the muscular adhesions of the lower back area while simultaneously electrifying with vitality the pranic energy fields of the spinal-chakra configuration complex. Is it any wonder why/how so many have taken to the habit of receiving weekly treatments in massage therapy?
Theoretically, it is important to know that Matsyendrasana also maintains the equilibrium of the ethereal sheath enveloping our body called Pranamaya Kosha. Pranamaya Kosha’s anatomy is comprised in part by the 3 major support channels of the spinal design. Classically known as the Ida, the Pingala and the Shushumna Nadis.
The pattern that these 3 conduits inscribe is the historical precedent which the American Medical Association uses as its logo.
PROCEDURE
Proceeding from the left side [for a woman], pick up the receiver’s left leg and bend it at the knee crease so that the receiver’s upper leg [femur] is perpendicular to the surface of the massage table or mat. Place your left palm upon the receiver’s lateral knee joint while placing your right palm upon the receiver’s shoulder chakra [pectoral fossa [basin]]. Instruct the receiver to expel their air as you gently compress the receiver’s lateral knee/hip assembly across the receiver’s resting leg.
To achieve full satisfaction for the receiver, it is imperative that the receiver’s left medial knee touches the table [or mat] surface with each of the three applications. Monitoring the shoulder area with conscientious awareness during the application is a symptom of an experienced and professional therapist. Ignoring the fact that the shoulder’s response is the key factor in achieving a fulfilling remedial consequence of Matsyendrasana would prove to be insensitive, discourteous and even potentially harmful.
Repeat this procedure on the receiver’s opposite side three times also. Always take time to enjoy getting into position. There is no need to be anxious when repositioning. The quality of the time involved to assume a new posture is very valuable to the over all ambiance of the session. Proceed always with gentle and respectable grace and finesse. Transmit a spirit of comfort and confidence during your transitions and this will greatly enhance the quality of the treatment with a hypnotic tranquility.
PERSONAL NOTE:
In private, Self –Matsyendrasana [rolling our knee/hip mechanisms to the opposite side of our bodies and repeating the procedure at least 21 times in each direction each day while remembering to leave the shoulder stationary on the surface of the table or mat] will produce a ‘youthing’ affect and a feeling which will promote a reversal of the aging principle. I agree that this asana possesses a marvelous gift-like mellow.
CAUTIONS:
BENEFITS: