Method: Matsyasan is performed immediately after Sarvangasan. Spread a mat or a blanket and sit on it with the legs stretched. Bend the right leg and place the heel on the left hip-joint. Again bend the left leg and place the heel on the right hip-joint. This is Padmasan or the footlock. In this very position, lie on your back. The Padmasan should not be raised from the ground. Rest the elbows or hands on the ground.

Now lift the trunk and head. Rest the top of the head on the ground by bending the back well and and throwing the neck well behind. Then catch hold of the toes. This is Matsyasan. If performed along with Sarvangasan, perform for 2 or 3 minutes only.

It is possible that in the beginning you may not be able to perform footlock or Padmasan. In this case, you may simply bend the legs at the knees instead.

Benefits: This asan relieves cramps and stiffness in the neck, and common disease of the first story seldom trouble those practicing these asans.