Skip to main content

Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose)

Info

A look at how to do Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose) in the Iyengar method.

Ardha Chandrasana (Half Moon Pose)

About Ardha Chandrasana

Half moon pose. A graceful standing posture where the body is balanced on one leg, with the support of a hand to the floor. The body resembles the shape of a crescent moon. The backs of the legs are opened, and the paraspinal muscles extend and are strengthened. This asana enhances focus and concentration, as well as improving balance.

When to use Ardha Chandrasana?

As with all standing poses, this pose builds stability and groundedness. It is a good all-rounder to include in a standing pose sequence.

Useful during menstruation or pregnancy, Ardha Chandrasana can be taken with the support of the horse or the wall. This modification allows the practitioner to benefit from the hip opening, the pelvic opening, and improved circulation and space in the abdominal region with less effort and energy needed to maintain the pose and its balance.

As a weight bearing pose Ardha Chandrasana is also useful in maintaining bone density and in cultivating balance.