How to Do Half Moon Pose

Half Moon, or Ardha Chandrasana, offers the opportunity to practice balance and focus, while also helping to strengthen your legs and ankles.

Use these tips to learn how to set up the pose and help improve your technique.

PURPOSE OF THE POSE

Teaches balance. Helps strengthen leg and core muscles.

HOW TO

• Start from standing at the front edge of your mat
• Fold forward, then walk your fingertips forward to lengthen your spine
• With hips squared to the floor, lift your left leg to a 90-degree angle
• Your right toes should point directly forward
• Place your right hand on the mat about a foot in front of you
• Reach your left arm to the sky and stack your left hip on top of your right
• Flex your left foot and squeeze your lifted leg for stability
• Pull your left toes slightly forward — you should be able to look back and see them behind you
• Press your right big toe firmly into the floor for balance as you squeeze your core muscles
• Set your gaze a few inches in front of your hand. With practice, you can progress to lifting your gaze to the sky
• Release by setting your left foot next to your right foot
• Switch sides

COMMON MISTAKE

Avoid turning your chest toward the floor. This pose is designed to open your body up. Imagine as though you are balancing between two panes of glass — all of your joints should be stacked.

Warrior 2 is a beneficial pose to practice in preparation for Balancing Half Moon.

If you feel wobbly, place your hand on a yoga block turned to its tallest point for support.

You may find that some days Half Moon is more challenging than others. Continue to practice, and remember: if you lose your balance, take a breath and try it again!