Ardha Matsyandrasana
Basic Overview: Detoxifying, grounding, releases spine, focuses on 3rd Chakra (Manipura), balances Ida and Pingala nadis (the two major meridians that run along the spine and relate to the parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous system).
From an Energetic/Ayurvedic Perspective: Because this is a seated pose, it increases Kapha (qualities of earth and water) by grounding the individual. At the same it increases Pitta (qualities of fire) because it focuses on the Manipura Chakra, the site of our Agni or internal flame. Finally, this asana decreases Vata (qualities of movement and air) because it is stabilizing through the hips and pelvis.
