Finding balance: say hello to leg and ankle strength as you seek stability and extend into this balancing pose. Half Moon Yoga Pose, or Ardha Chandrasana, is a beautiful expression of strength, balance, and openness. Whether you’re just beginning your yoga journey or have been practicing for years, Half Moon Pose offers a moment to slow down, connect to your breath, and find stability in movement.

I often include Half Moon Yoga Pose in classes and yoga retreats because it builds confidence, strengthens the legs and core, and improves overall balance, something that’s beneficial at every stage of life, especially for those exploring yoga for longevity and mobility. My approach is always kind, supportive, and focused on creating a nurturing community where everyone feels safe to grow, whether you’re in your 30s or a senior, whther you’re an athlete or just finding your way back to movement.

Kind Words:

“Joanna is a wonderful instructor as she expertly works with all in attendance, no matter their level of yoga practice.I thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and returned home very refreshed.” - M. Murphy

What Is Half Moon Pose?

Half Moon Pose is a standing balance pose where one foot stays grounded while the pelvis and torso open away from the ground into an open-hearted shape. It combines strength, stability, and a sense of expansion much like gazing up at the night sky.

What Are the Benefits of Half Moon Pose?

Improves balance and coordination:
Regular practice builds confidence in everyday movements and enhances body awareness.
Strengthens the legs, glutes, and core:
These key muscle groups support stability and mobility as we age.
Opens the chest and hips:
Encourages better posture and deep, spacious breathing.
Enhances focus and presence:
Balancing requires mindful attention—a gentle reminder to stay grounded, even when life feels unsteady.

For students exploring yoga for seniors, Half Moon Pose is especially supportive. It strengthens the lower body and improves steadiness, helping to prevent falls and increase confidence both on and off the mat.

Step-by-Step Guide to Half Moon Pose

Start in Extended Side Angle Pose (Parsvakonasana).
Ground through your front foot keeping the knee bent.
Shift your weight forward.
Bring your back foot closer so most of your weight rests on your front leg.
Place your hand on a block, a chair or on the floor.
Support is key, a block or a chair will offer more space to open through the chest and hips.
Lift the back leg.
Keep it strong and parallel to the ground, flexing the foot for stability.
Open your chest toward the sky.
Important: Without twisting your standing leg knee inward, gently rotate your pelvis and torso, imagining that you could stack your top hip over your bottom hip.
Extend your top arm.
If it feels steady, gaze upward; otherwise, keep your gaze down for better balance.
Breathe deeply.
Stay for several breaths, feeling strength through the standing leg and lift through the heart.
Try reversing your movement returning to Extended Side Angle, slowly and with control.

Tip: Practice with your standing leg hip and back against a wall if you’re building balance or trying the pose for the first time. The wall offers reassurance and allows you to focus on alignment rather than wobbling.

Modifications for All Bodies

At Joanna Dunn Yoga, we believe yoga should feel accessible, kind, and enjoyable for everyone.

Use a block or chair for support.
Keep your gaze down to maintain stability.
Practice near a wall for confidence and comfort.
This is a wonderful yoga pose to practice throughout all stages of pregnancy as long as you feel steady. In the final trimester, use the wall for extra support.

How to Improve Your Half Moon Pose

Begin with transitions.
Flowing into Half Moon from Extended Side Angle (Parsvakonasana) can make it easier to find alignment and balance.

Move slowly and keep your eyes focused down on the floor.
The journey into the pose matters as much as the pose itself—allowing space to breathe, wobble, and learn.

Ready to Explore More?

If you’re ready to deepen your practice, join me for a yoga retreat in the pacific northwest or beyond. You’ll find a like-minded community where connection, support, and nurturing guidance are at the heart of every experience. Together, we’ll explore poses- probably including Half Moon! that strengthen the body, steady the mind, and invite balance into every part of life.

Explore upcoming retreats below and find your own version of balance.

join a yoga retreat with me

woman sitting on a fence wearing yoga clothes with hand on heart — Joanna Dunn is an experienced yoga teacher offering yoga retreats in the Pacific Northwest and beyond. Joanna’s retreats are inclusive and community focused - all are welcome - whether it’s your very first retreat or your 30th yoga retreat you will be greeted with open arms.

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Finding Balance: How to Practice Half Moon yoga Pose (Ardha Chandrasana)