Ardha
Chandrasana
(half moon pose)
(are-dah chan-DRAHS-anna)
ardha = half
candra = glittering, shining, having the brilliancy
or hue of light (said of the gods); usually translated
as “moon”
The moon has a rich symbolic significance in yoga mythology. In hatha yoga, for example, the sun and the moon represent the two polar energies of the human body. In fact, the word hatha itself is often divided into its two constituent syllables, "ha" and "tha", which are then esoterically interpreted as signifying the solar and lunar energies respectively.
Benefits
Strengthens the spine, stretches chest and lungs, shoulders,
and abdomen. Firms the buttocks with stimulation to
groin and abdominal organs. Helps relieve stress and
fatigue while improving coordination and sense of balance.
Variation
To increase the challenge of this pose, raise the lower
hand away from the floor and rest it on the standing
thigh. Balance solely on the standing leg for 15 to
30 seconds.
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