Half Moon Pose - Ardha Chandrasana
Standing Yoga Postures: Half Moon Yoga Pose- Ardha Chandrasana
pronounced (are-dah chan-DRAHS-anna)
How to do the Half Moon Standing Yoga Posture:
1. Stand with your feet parallel and close to one another.
2. Raise arms overhead. Face palms together.
3. Lift your kneecaps by tightening your thighs together. We’ll call this the center position.
4. Extend your spine by slowly and gently bending from your waist to the left.
5. Without straining your neck, angle your upper body slightly to the left while looking down at your left foot. You are now in the half moon yoga pose. Hold for three to five breaths.
6. Return to the center position.
7. Repeat on the right side.
8. Return to the center position and relax your arms.
Benefits of the Half Moon Yoga Posture:
This standing yoga posture stretches the muscles at the waist and the muscles along the sides of your upper body while trimming and toning the waistline. It strengthens the spine, improves balance, relieves stress, and aids in digestion.
Half Moon Yoga Pose Modifications for Beginners:
You can also try a seated half moon yoga pose, recommended for those who sit in a chair all day to relieve tightness in the upper back and shoulders.
Half Moon Standing Yoga Posture Modifications for Advanced Yogi Practitioners:
Another version of the half moon standing yoga posture is more advanced. The sequence is as follows:
1. Begin in the triangle yoga pose, with your left hand resting on your left hip.
2. Move forward while bending your right need just a little.
3. Place your right hand facing forward a few inches from your right foot. Press hand and leg into the floor and gain your balance.
4. Lift your left leg up so that it is parallel to the floor. Turn your head up and look at your hand. Stay in this pose for three to five breaths. Return to triangle yoga pose.
Half Moon Yoga Pose Variations:
The beginner and the advanced standing yoga posture can be done while leaning your back against a wall. In the advanced half moon standing yoga posture, you can rest the extended arm on your hip to help maintain balance. If you have trouble reaching the floor, you can use a block for support.
Half Moon Yoga Pose Caution:
If you have a neck injury, do not look up toward your fingers. Keep your head in a neutral position. The first half moon yoga pose is an excellent stretch for anyone.