Pose of the Month: Ardha Chandrasana - Half Moon

In Sanskrit, Ardha means half and Chandra means moon. We tack the asana, meaning pose, to the end and get Half Moon Pose because the body looks a little like that crescent moon shape by the split of the legs.

Starting Position

• Half moon can be access from several starting positions. In this example, Amy builds the pose from Warrior II (pictured below).
• In Warrior II the front leg is bent and strongly rooted to the floor. This firm footing (pun intended!) will help create the stability for the pose as the back leg lifts.
• If you are using a block, place it outside and slightly in front of the front foot. Using a block is optional and a great way to bring the ground closer to you.

Amy starts in Warrior II.

Moving Into the Pose

• Keeping the length in your back, gradually shift the weight into the front leg, pressing down through all four corners of the foot.
• Maintain the T shape of the arms during this transition and reach the front arm toward the block. As you do, the back arm moves upward toward the sky.

Reaching for the block, which helps bring the ground closer to you.

• While the arms are moving, begin to slowly straighten the front leg, keeping the back hip rotated fully open.

The standing foot is pointing forward and
the lifted leg is extending straight back from the hip.

• If a block feels unnecessary, remove it and let the arm and hand reach toward the floor, which helps with balance, as seen below.
• Allow the upper arm to reach toward the ceiling, radiating out from the heart center.
• Flex the back, lifted foot and push through the heel.
• Engage the core to support body as it extends from the crown of the head through the lifted leg.