Crescent Moon Pose
Anjaneyasana
What is Crescent Moon Pose?
Crescent moon pose, or anjaneyasana in Sanskrit, is a low lunge pose. Similar to warrior I pose, the back knee stays on the floor with the toes untucked. The pose stretches and strengthens the legs and opens the chest and lungs.
Instructions
- Begin in downward facing dog pose.
- Exhale and step the right foot between the hands.
- Lower the back knee to the floor and untuck the toes.
- Be sure that the right knee is directly above the right ankle. Inhale and reach the hands toward the sky.
- Lift the chest and gaze diagonally upward.
- Breathe while holding the pose.
- Exhale and lower, returning to downward facing dog pose. Change sides.
Cautions
- Place a blanket under the back knee if there is any knee pain.
Benefits of Crescent Moon Pose
- Opens the hips.
- Lengthens the sides of the body.
- Lengthens the spine.
- Stretches the hips and quadriceps.
- Improves balance.
- Opens the shoulders.
Crescent Moon Pose Details
- Sanskrit Name
- Anjaneyasana
- Pronunciation
- ahn-jah-nay-AH-sah-nah
- Pose Level
- Beginner
- Drishti
- Urdhva (Toward the sky)
- Pose Type
- Backbends, Balancing, Chest Openers, Hip Openers
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