Ardha Chandrasana
Half-moon pose (variations 1 and 2)
From ardha, "half", and chandra, "moon". A graceful balance that mirrors the half moon in the sky.
Technique
- Start from Ashwa Sanchalanasana (low lunge).
- Keeping the balance, bring the palms together in front of the chest.
- With the palms joined, raise the arms over the head.
- Arch the head and upper trunk back as far as comfortable, without strain: a gentle curve from the fingertips to the toes, like a crescent moon.
- Balance in the final position. Practise on both legs.
Awareness
Physically on the smooth, controlled movement, the stretch from the feet to the fingertips and the spaciousness in the chest and throat, on balance and breath; gradually on Vishuddhi chakra.
What it gives
- Limbers and strengthens the whole body.
- Stretches the neck, shoulders, back and chest.
- Improves the sense of balance.
Precautions
No specific precaution in the handbook. Practise progressively, never force, and learn intermediate postures with a teacher first.
Learn it with Acharya Lokesh
Intermediate postures are safest when a teacher watches you. Book a free trial session at home in Delhi or online, or take the illustrated guide home.
Text from Acharya Lokesh's handbook Yogasana for Intermediates (Agastya Yoga School, 2022), edited for clarity. General information about a traditional practice, not medical advice: if you have a health condition, are pregnant or recovering from surgery, ask your doctor first.