What is Revolved Half Moon Pose?

Revolved half moon pose, or parivrtta ardha chandrasana in Sanskrit, is both a balancing and twisting posture. It is similar to half moon pose where the yogi balances on one leg, the other leg and torso parallel to the ground, arm reaching toward the sky. However, in this variation, the torso is revolved toward the standing leg and the opposite arm reaches to the sky. It is a challenging intermediate posture.

Instructions

• Begin in half moon pose, standing on your right foot with your right fingertips on the floor.
• Exhale and lower your left fingertips to the floor.
• Inhale and reach your right arm toward the sky, torso twisting to the right.
• Breathe while holding the pose. Exhale and untwist, returning to half moon.
• Inhale and come to standing.
• Again, come to half moon pose, this time standing on your left foot with your left fingertips on the floor.
• Exhale and lower your right fingertips to the floor.
• Inhale and reach your left arm toward the sky, torso twisting to the left.
• Breathe while holding the pose.

Cautions

• Do not practice before mastering half moon pose
• In case of neck pain, gaze down at the floor

Benefits of Revolved Half Moon Pose

• Improves balance and coordination
• Strengthens the legs and core
• Stretches the shoulders, back and hamstrings
• Improves digestion