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Balancing in Ardha Matsyendrasana

 
 

emily
Novice

May 7, 2002, 8:02 PM

Post #1 of 3 (352 views)
Balancing in Ardha Matsyendrasana Can't Post
Greetings,

I'm writing with the hope that someone in this forum can help me with the seating in Ardha Matsyendrasana.

Certain Iyengar-style twists, especially Ardha Matsyendrasana, are performed seated on one foot. When I attempt these in class or at home I am completely unable to balance on the foot which forms the seat. One side of me invariably falls off onto to the floor. This has got to be an issue of how I am seated on the foot, because I am flexible and able to perform the other types of twists, including the standing twists.

Does anyone have any tips or hints or ways that you successfully practice this pose that might help me achieve this? I have been folding blanket under the falling hip but would like to achieve the pose seated fully on the foot. I have been practicing Iyengar yoga for 7 years, and this has been a real stumbling block for me.

Thank you so much, in advance.

erin
Enthusiast

Jun 13, 2002, 8:15 PM

Post #2 of 3 (239 views)
Re: Balancing in Ardha Matsyendrasana [In reply to] Can't Post
I have been taught to turn the foot in sideways and place one sit bone on the heel and the other on the ball of the foot with the tailbone over the arch of the foot. I know of someone who mistakenly placed her tailbone on the heel and knocked it out of place requiring chiropractic care.

emily
Novice

Jul 31, 2002, 4:07 PM

Post #3 of 3 (2 views)
Re: Balancing in Ardha Matsyendrasana [In reply to] Can't Post
Yay! Last night I finally got it. Thanks for much for the tip Erin. I've been working at it for a month and finally balanced and was even able to do a hand clasp. I think one secret is not to push too hard against the leg with the front arm: the twist is more subtle than just pushing yourself in order to turn, no?

 
 
 


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