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Ardha Matseynadrasana Class 1

10 mins

This class explores Ardha Matsyendrāsana as a deceptively challenging Second Series twist built on leg grounding and arm leverage. We begin by establishing the seat: at least half the weight forward into the legs, not sunk into the pelvis. Blocks or height are used to ensure the down-thigh and squatting foot root firmly. From there, lift the spine and rotate, first with fist-to-leg bracing at a right angle, then with arm variations that maintain internal rotation for joint safety and longer leverage. Students learn to spiral the spine by combining rooted legs, resisting arms, circular gaze, and lengthened neck. Modifications include block support behind the hand to keep weight forward, or clasping hands behind the head to drill rhythmic twists. We also discuss sacrum alignment—allowing slight hip offset so the entire spine, not just the thoracic, participates. Exits include straight jump-backs from squat or “fancy” transitions, sucking the body underneath into Chaturanga with or without blocks. The essence: ground legs and arms → spiral spine with internal arm rotation → finish with proportionate, rhythmical exit—a study in stability, rotation, and intelligent setup. Model - Delara Tiv (Ashtanga Vevey)