High Lunge Pose (Sanskrit: AṣhṭāChandrāsana / अर्ध चंद्रासन)
The High Lunge Pose which is also called the Crescent Pose or Ashta Chandrasana (Aṣhṭā Chandrāsana) is a standing yoga asana which looks very similar to the Warrior Pose series. It targets our hips, hamstrings, glutes, thighs, knees and ankles while giving the spine a deep, rejuvenating stretch. Besides giving us strength, it also stabilizes our system since it has amazing cleansing and balancing benefits, especially on the three doshas.
Instruction for Doing the High Lunge Pose
- Start by getting into the final position of the Downward Facing Dog (Adho Mukha Svanasana). With an exhalation, step your right foot forward, in the middle of your hands. Make sure your right knee and right heel are in one straight line. Keep your left leg firmly balanced.
- Now, with an inhalation, raise your torso upwards (make your upper body upright) and extend your arms wide to your sides and then raise them over your head, palms facing each other. Keep your spine straight and erect and gaze up towards your thumbs.
- Hold this position for about 30 to 60 seconds, breathing normally, without any jerks.
- To release the pose, exhale and come back to step 1’s position (Adho Mukha Svanasana). First, place your hands on the floor and then take your right foot back. Stay here for a few breaths and then repeat all the steps with your left leg. Hold the final position for another 30 to 60 seconds and then release the pose completely.
Benefits of Doing the Ashta Chandrasana
- High Lunge Pose opens up your chest, activating your respiratory system. It keeps your nasal passage clear and increases your lung capacity.
- This asana also increases your blood circulation and boosts your metabolism. This keeps your digestive system in great condition.
- Ashta Chandrasana strengthens your lower body, especially your glutes, thighs, hamstrings, and quads.
- It enhances your flexibility, agility, and mental coordination, helping you lead a more active and balanced life.
- This asana is particularly beneficial for those with ailments like asthma, insomnia, and sciatica.
Precautions
- Do not practice this pose if you have a knee, spinal, or hip injury.
- Also, if you have high or low blood pressure, it’s best to avoid this pose or practice it with a lot of precaution.
- If you tend to get headaches or migraines frequently, do not look upwards. Instead, keep your head straight and gaze at a point in front of you.