Half moon pose – Ardha Chandrasana

Today, is the 31st of January, and the world will get to witness a rare astronomical event, where the lunar eclipse, blue moon, and supermoon, will occur simultaneously. This has inspired me to find out more about the half moon pose, Ardha Chandrasana.

 

How to perform the Ardha Chandrasana

  1. Transition from Utthita Trikonasana (right). Shift your weight to your right leg, and slowly slide your left leg closer.
  2. Ground your right heel firmly onto the ground, and straighten your right leg. Place your right hand on the ground, simultaneouslylifting the left leg parallel to the floor. Actively engage your core, glutes, and legs.
  3. Rotate upper torso to the left, and bring the left arm up, fingers pointing to the ceiling. Gaze on your left thumb.

 

Preparatory poses

– Warrior 1

– Side angle stretch

– Utthita trikonasana

 

Options/ modifications:

– Use a block under downward arm

– Gaze forward and kept the head in a neutral position

– Practice the pose against the wall

 

Common mistakes

– Bottom hand too close to leg

– Locking the knee of the standing leg

– Not engaging the top leg

– Collapsing the chest, causing the spine to round

 

Benefits

– Strengthens: ankles, legs, glutes, spine, core

– Stretches: calves, hamstrings, chest, groin, spine

– Improve balance and coordination

– relieves stress, indigestion, fatigue, and menstrual cramps

 

Contraindications and Cautions

– Neck problems (keep head in neutral position)

– Headaches

– Low blood pressure

– Diarrhea

 

Cassandra Mai  YTTC200 – January 2018