Originally posted in German on 5th June 2026
Consciously held yoga asana support the ability to perceive and have an ordering effect on the nervous system. Matsyasana (The Fish) in particular can stimulate the sensitive nerves and support the ability to concentrate through the activation of the chest and collarbone region.1) The introductory summary at the beginning and the questions and answers at the end of the article were added by the editors for the online edition. The main text is by Heinz Grill.
The effect of consciously held asanas on the sensitive nerves
A yoga asana, when held in the static phase consciously and in the presence of a content thought2) Translator’s note: the meaning of ‘content thought’ is: thoughts of meaning, substance and universal validity, strengthens the nervous system extraordinarily thoroughly. It is the sensitive nerves that are brought into a heightened ability to perceive. Calmly holding the position in the end phase brings an ordering to the perception and thought formation with an observation of the soul-feelings that relate to the will being applied. Carrying out asanas with these holding phases causes a very beneficial cleansing process, that specifically frees the sensitive nerves from the finest deposits of waste material. The nerves must be able to carry out their work freely and undisturbed, unencumbered by strain, irritations and the effects of toxins circulating throughout the body. The asanas bring about this important process through ordering and cleansing.
A good, conscious self-activity is important for this cleansing and ordering process. The Fish Pose (Matsyasana) – an exercise that has previously been presented with numerous variations in an article – has a particularly cleansing effect on the upper thoracic and collarbone region and brings the sensitive nerves in this area to engage more. All the variations should be held in the end phase for up to half a minute.
Daily practise of the fish is therefore highly recommended.
A detailed description of the practice, effects and spiritual meaning of Matsyasana can be found in the article: Matsyasana (Fish) – Effects, practice and spiritual meaning.
The following questions are highlighted:
What effect does Matsyasana have on the nervous system?
According to a spiritual scientific perspective, Matsyasana activates the ability to perceive and helps to order the sensitive nerves.
How long should Matsyasana be held?
The position can be held in the end phase for up to half a minute.
Why is the holding phase of an asana important?
A calm holding phase furthers the observation of soul-feelings and supports the connection between perception, thinking and will.
Anmerkungen
| ⇑1 | The introductory summary at the beginning and the questions and answers at the end of the article were added by the editors for the online edition. The main text is by Heinz Grill. |
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| ⇑2 | Translator’s note: the meaning of ‘content thought’ is: thoughts of meaning, substance and universal validity |