Half Moon Pose Calms and Balances

National Yoga Month continues with our pose a day. For this Monday, we chose Half Moon Pose, or Ardha Chandrasana. We know it’s a full moon out. Do it on both sides and there you go: a full moon! Half moon pose is amazing for balance and strength. It requires focus, stillness and trust. The moon represents lunar, feminine energy. Try this challenging yet calming pose to create balance and stress relief.

HOW TO DO HALF MOON POSE:

Start on the right side in . Bend the right knee and shift your weight into the right leg as you reach your right hand toward the mat, just in front of the right foot. Start to straighten the right leg as the left leg lifts up and back directly toward the back of the mat. Heart and hips should be open to the long side of the mat. Reach your left hand upward and gaze toward it for more challenge. To come out, lower your left leg to the floor as you exhale and return to Triangle Pose. Repeat to the left side.

WHY TO DO HALF MOON POSE:

• Therapeutic for anxiety, fatigue, menstrual pain, backache, fertility, sciatica, osteoporosis, indigestion, gastritis and constipation
• Improve balance and full-body coordination
• Strengthens the ankles, thighs and core muscles along the back spine
• Firms and trims the waistline, hips, abdomen and buttocks

To modify half moon pose you can use a yoga block under the bottom hand in front of the foot. For more work, try lifting the bottom hand off of the floor or taking your gaze, or drishti to the top hand. Hold the pose for 3-5 breaths. Repeat a few times for added benefits, challenging to lift a little higher and extend a little longer each time!

Photo – shutterstock.com