Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana)
- elisha st denis
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Half Moon Pose is a beautiful standing balance that combines strength, flexibility, and focus. Balancing on one leg while extending the other leg parallel to the floor, this pose opens the hips, strengthens the standing leg, and challenges your coordination. It's named for the graceful arc the body creates, like a crescent moon suspended in the sky.
How to Practice Half Moon Pose (Ardha Chandrasana)
1.Begin in Triangle Pose with your right foot forward.
2. Bend your right knee slightly and bring your right hand to the floor (or a block) about a foot in front of your right foot.
3. Shift your weight onto your right foot and right hand.
4. Lift your left leg to hip height, keeping it parallel to the floor and foot flexed.
5. Slowly open your left hip on top of your right hip and extend your left arm toward the ceiling.
6. Gaze down at the floor, forward, or up toward your top hand, wherever feels stable.
7. Hold for 5 breaths, then switch sides.
Modifications & Variations
Block under bottom hand: A block is your best friend in this pose, it raises the floor and allows you to balance without straining.
Back foot against a wall: Press your lifted foot against a wall behind you for added stability.
Gaze down: Looking down at the floor is the easiest option for balance, save the upward gaze for when you're comfortable in the pose.
Make It More Challenging
Half prayer at the heart: Once you feel steady, lift your bottom hand off the floor and bring it to half prayer position in front of your chest. This removes your grounding point entirely and demands much more from your standing leg, core, and focus. It's a significant step up from the standard version of the pose.
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