Half Moon
Maya - Pose Assistant
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Benefits
Half Moon Pose is an intermediate standing balance pose that opens the hips and chest, stretches the groins and hamstrings, strengthens the legs and core, and improves coordination and balance.
Practice Guide
From Triangle Pose (Trikonasana) with right foot forward: Bend right knee slightly, place right fingertips on floor or block about 6-12 inches ahead and slightly right of right foot.
Shift weight onto right foot and hand. Lift left leg parallel to floor (or higher if comfortable).
Stack left hip directly over right hip. Rotate torso open towards the left.
Extend left arm towards ceiling, creating a line with right arm.
Flex lifted left foot. Engage standing leg and core.
Gaze can be down, sideways, or up towards left hand (most challenging).
Hold, breathe. Exit: Exhale, bend right knee, lower left foot back to Triangle or Warrior II position.
Modifications
Use a yoga block under the bottom hand for height and stability.
Practice with your back close to a wall for support and alignment feedback.
Keep the top hand on your hip instead of extending it upwards.
Keep your gaze directed down at the floor for easier balance.
Safety Notes
⚠Headache or migraine (avoid or keep gaze down)
⚠Low blood pressure (can cause dizziness, use caution)
⚠Diarrhea
⚠Insomnia
⚠Neck problems (look down or straight ahead, avoid turning head up)
Anatomy
Muscles Targeted
Muscles Stretched
What's Next?
Maya suggests trying these poses:
Focus Areas
Yoga Styles
Sequencing
Warm-up Poses
✨ Maya's Tips
These insights help Maya understand how this pose flows with others when creating sequences and classes.