Prathamopadeśaḥ (Āsana) · Verse 54
मत्स्येन्द्रासनमभ्यासात्कुण्डलिनीप्रबोधनम् | चन्द्रस्थैर्यं च पुंसां स्यादरोगत्वं च जायते
matsyendrāsanam abhyāsāt kuṇḍalinī-prabodhanam | candra-sthairyaṃ ca puṃsāṃ syād arogatvaṃ ca jāyate
Through the practice of Matsyendrāsana, kuṇḍalinī is awakened, the lunar bindu is stabilized, and the absence of disease arises.
This verse enumerates the extraordinary benefits of Matsyendrāsana:
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Kuṇḍalinī-prabodhanam — Awakening of kuṇḍalinī. The spinal twist stimulates Suṣumnā nāḍī and can activate the dormant energy at the base of the spine.
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Candra-sthairyam — Stabilization of the lunar bindu. In tantric physiology, the “lunar nectar” (amṛta) drips from the moon in the brain (Sahasrāra) and is consumed by the solar fire in the abdomen. Matsyendrāsana helps preserve this nectar, retarding aging.
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Arogatvam — Absence of disease. The physical effects of the twist on internal organs, especially the digestive system and kidneys, promote general health.
These three benefits cover the physical, energetic, and spiritual planes. The posture not only heals the body but prepares for illumination.
It is notable that a single posture can awaken kuṇḍalinī. This indicates the high value that tradition places on Matsyendrāsana, comparable even to Siddhāsana in importance.