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Half Moon | Ardha Chandrasana
Half moon is an energizing pose that strengthens the arches, ankles, knees, and thighs. It stretches the hamstrings while improving balance and coordination.
Sanskrit: Ardha Chandrasana
Drishti: over the fingertips, forward or on the floor
Counterpose: forward fold
Materials
- yoga mat
- yoga block (optional)
Instructions
- Start in tadasana. Step your feet wide apart and extend your arms out to the side.
- Inhale and turn your left foot in slightly. Then, rotate your right leg out to the side.
- Exhale and bend your right knee, placing your right fingertips down about 12 inches in front of your right foot. Keep your leg muscles engaged and left hand to waist.
- Inhale and lift the back leg up so that you are balancing on your right leg and hand. Extend left arm up directly above the left shoulder. Look forward or up toward the extended arm.
- Hold for a few breaths. Release slowly and repeat on the other side.
Notes
Modification: For a gentle variation, place a block under your lower hand for an extra lift and support.
Preparatory poses: tree, warrior 2, warrior 3, pyramid
Follow-up poses: warrior 2, extended side angle, downward dog
Half