Half Moon Pose - Ardha Chandrasana

Aloha Everyone,

Technique for Half-Moon Pose

• Stand in Tadasana (refer to Tadasana, Moutain Pose, blog entry)
• Using the short side of the yoga block, place it against the wall
• As you inhale, step out your feel approximately 3 – 5 feet, this depends on your height and flexibility
• Turn your left foot just slightly in towards right
• Place your right foot parallel to the wall
• Bend your right knee
• Place your right hand on the block.  Try to see if you can place your palm flat on the block for maximum support
• Using your breath gently straighten your right leg
• Lean onto your right hand and let your weight be supported by your right hand and right foot.  
• Lift your left leg so it is straight, and parallel to the ground. 
• Find your balance then bring your left arm straight
• The back side of your left arm should be touching the wall
• Look up at the left thumb
• Using long steady breath to hold this pose for 5 – 20 seconds
• Release when you are done
• Change side.

Benefits:

• Develops mental and physical balance
• Helps concentration
• Tones the lumber and sacral spine
• Helps relieve backaches
• Aligns shoulders
• Helps relieve sciatica
• Improves circulations in the feet
• Builds self confidence 

Cathi's note:  A wall and yoga block are commonly used as props to do Half-Moon Pose.  This pose is more advanced of balancing poses.  Do not practice this pose if you have eye strain, stress related headaches, diarrhea or varicose vein.  As in doing any of the yoga asanas, do warm up exercises first and take a few moments to find your center.  Your mind and body must be flexible to achieve this pose.  Do not do this pose if you are tired or lack sleep  Always listen to your body.  Do not over strain

Namaste -- Cathi