Standing Yoga Pose
Twisted Half Moon Pose
Parivritta Ardha Chandrasana
Parivritta Ardha Chandrasana (Twisted Half Moon) is an advanced-level asana. The pose enhances balance and coordination, opens the upper back and chest, stretches and opens the hips and legs, and massages the abdominal organs for improved digestion and posture. The Sanskrit breaks down as 'Parivritta' (twisted), 'Ardha' (half), 'Chandra' (moon), and 'asana' (pose).
DifficultyAdvanced
CategoryStanding Yoga Pose
ChakraSwadhisthana & Manipura Chakra
AdvancedHow to do it
Steps to Perform Twisted Half Moon Pose
- 1Stand in Tadasana.
- 2Step the left foot one step back; inhale and stretch the hands in line with the legs.
- 3Exhale, twist, and bend forward, placing the left hand on the mat and lifting the left leg.
- 4Point the right hand to the ceiling; gaze at the right palm.
- 5Keep breathing while holding the pose.
- 6Relax, drop the leg, release the hands, and return to Tadasana.
- 7Repeat on the opposite side.
Why practise it
Benefits
- Increases focus and concentration.
- Builds strength in the ankles, calf muscles, thighs, abdomen, buttocks, and lower back.
- Stretches the shoulders, chest, torso, spine, groins, and hamstrings.
- Regular practice boosts stamina.
For beginners
Tips
- Focus on opening the hips and maintaining balance.
- Fix the foot and wrist firmly on the ground.
- Prepare with hip-opening poses: Ashwasanchalanasana, Anjaneyasana, Kapotasana, Eka Pada Adho Mukha Svanasana, Baddha Konasana, Parighasana, and Natarajasana (Dancer's Pose).
Watch Out For
- Sciatica and back-injury patients must avoid this pose.
- Avoid with foot or ankle injuries.
- People with high blood pressure should avoid it.
- Do not push your limits; this pose requires practice to master.
Go further
Variations
- Parivritta Ardha Chandrasana is itself an intense variation of Ardha Chandrasana.
- Practise on a chair or with wall support.
- Bend the knee and touch the toe with the palm.
Begin where you are.
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