Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon pose)
Etymology
Instructions
- Stand with legs about 3 feet apart, similar to taking the Trikonasana
- As you would when performing the Trikonasana, stand with your legs about 3 feet apart.
- Bring your hands up and parallel to the ground.
- The toes of the right foot should point to the right side when they are turned to the right.
- Bring your right hand and right foot together as you stoop to the right. For balance, place your fingertips on the ground.
The right knee should now be bent till the lower leg is 90 degrees from the thighs. - Drag the right hand away from the right foot to move even more to the right. For support, place the right palm on the ground. At this point, the right leg can be slightly bent. Raise your left leg off the floor at the same time.At this time, the left hand is pointing upward.
- Now extend your right leg straight and bear all of your weight on the right palm and leg.
- Straighten your left leg. It should be level with the ground. The left hand is still raised directly up toward the ceiling. As much as you can, try to keep the left leg, head, neck, and body in a straight line.
- By shifting your weight from your flat left palm to your fingers, you might try to raise yourself even higher.
- As long as it is comfortable for you, stay in this posture. For starters, 30 to 60 seconds should be sufficient.
- Bring the left leg to the floor while simultaneously bending the right leg just enough to exit the posture.
- Straighten the right leg, then move the right hand and right foot closer together. With your hands still extended, raise yourself to a standing posture. Reposition the right foot so that they are once again pointing forward.
- On the left side, repeat the same process.
Benefits
- A nice position to improve balance and coordination.
- Legs, ankles, waists, abdomens, spines, and arms are all strengthened by it.
- specific areas of the belly are toned, ArdhaChandrasana can enhance digestion.
- Stress relief may be aided by it.
- Menstrual discomfort can be reduced by ArdhaChandrasana.
Limitations
If you have any ankle, knee, wrist, upper arm, waist, or shoulder injuries, avoid performing ArdhaChandrasana. Additionally, people who have recently had surgery should avoid this stance. Individuals with blood pressure issues shouldn’t perform this. With sufficient caution and instruction, those with vertigo or dizziness can perform ArdhaChandrasana.
Preparatory Pose
Followup Pose