The word yoga means to join or unite. Connecting with the self or the divine spirit or your soul. There are eight different parts of yoga which include yama, niyama, asana, pranayama, pratyahara, dharana, dhyana and samadhi. When you practice all of these, it helps you achieve enlightenment. Yoga asanas and pranayama can help cure many health conditions and manage their symptoms.

There are many yoga postures and each one has its own benefits. One of them is Ardha Chandrasana.It is also known as ‘. Half Moon PoseThis asana benefits the lower back, abdomen and chest. The name Ardha Chandrasana is derived from the Sanskrit words, ‘ardha’ meaning ‘half’, ‘chandra’ meaning ‘moon’ and ‘asana’ meaning ‘posture’. When you perform this pose, your body resembles the image of a half moon and hence it is known as the Half Moon Pose. This asana is known to have many health benefits.

But first, let us see how to do this asana correctly.

• Stand with both feet touching from heels to toes, keep your back straight and press your hands lightly at your sides with your palms facing inwards.
• Then, bring your hands together on the chest and lightly press the palms against each other
• Breathe in and raise your arms straight up, pressing your palms lightly against each other.
• Then, bend your body backwards and keep your arms along your neck and head. Also, bend your head backwards and maintain this position.
• Make sure to keep your knees straight while doing this asana.
• Then slowly return to your first position and relax.

health benefits of ardha chandrasana

improves balance and stability

This pose helps strengthen the core muscles, which improves your balance and stability. The abdominal and back muscles also need to be activated to maintain this pose, which helps improve your overall body coordination.

strengthen feet and ankles

This pose activates the quadriceps, hamstrings, calves, and ankles, thereby toning muscles and improving stamina in the lower body. It also helps prevent injuries by increasing ankle stability.

opens the chest and shoulders

This pose helps to deeply stretch your chest, shoulders, and upper back, which improves posture and increases lung capacity. This can help you breathe better and reduce tension in the upper body.

improves hip flexibility

This pose stretches the hip flexors and outer thighs, increasing flexibility in the hips. It can also help reduce lower back tension and the risk of hip injuries.

Makes the spine stronger

This asana helps strengthen the spine, especially the lower back muscles. It helps maintain healthy spinal alignment and can reduce back pain.

Increases your focus

When you balance this pose, you have to coordinate several movements, which improves your concentration and mental focus. This pose promotes peace of mind, which helps reduce stress and anxiety.

Improves digestion

This asana helps to stimulate the abdominal organs which can aid digestion. It helps to gently massage the digestive organs, improving your digestion and relieving constipation.

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