High Lunge Pose - Ashta Chandrasana
Contents
High Lunge Pose or Ashta Chandrasana in Sanskrit (ahh-SHTAH chahn-DRAH-suh-nuh) is the perfect pose to come into after a long day of sitting all day. It creates space in your hip flexors and invigorates your spine. This standing balancing pose tones your calves, hamstrings, quadriceps, and glutes.
Open your heart in this slight backbend.
High Lunge Pose also Known as: Crescent High Lunge Pose, Crescent Moon Pose
Pose Detail
- By Type: Balancing Yoga Poses, Chest Opening Yoga Poses, Flexibility Yoga Poses, Shoulder Opening Yoga Poses
- Difficulty: Beginners
- Body Position: Standing Yoga Poses
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1
Begin in Downward Facing Dog.
Step 2
Exhale and step the left foot between the hands
Step 3
Align the ankle under the knee. Lift the back heel from the floor.
Step 4
Inhale and lift the arms and torso, reaching the hands toward the sky.
Step 5
Bring the torso vertical, then open the chest by gently arching back.
Step 6
Breathe while holding the pose.
Step 7
Exhale and step back to downward facing dog. Change sides.
Benefits and Contraindications
Benefits
Creates flexible strength
Strengthens and stretches the thighs, calves and ankles
Tones the lower body
Stretches the chest, lungs, shoulders, arms, neck, belly, groins (psoas) and the muscles of the back
Promotes stability in the front and back of the torso
Contraindications
High blood pressure
Heart problems
Photo poses in different angles
Modification, Props and Tips
- If you have sensitive knees, come down to your back knee and place a yoga blanket or block under your back knee.
- If you feel strain in your neck or shoulders, lower your arms by placing them on blocks, your hips, or on the floor.
- To maintain your balance, place your hands on a chair or wall in front of you for support.
Variations
- High Lunge Seated
- High Lunge With Knees Bent
- High Lunge With A Chair
