Moon Salutation

Yoga Discussion General Yoga
#1

Hi everyone,

I have a question about the exercise moon salutation. As far as I understand it is a sequence of yoga poses and I would like to know, if within this exercise, is a pose that can be connected specifically to the full moon.

I know the pose called ‘Half Moon’, but have not come accross a specific pose that is either called ‘Full Moon’ or is dedicated in some way to the full moon.

Hence my hope, that someone here in this forum might be able to clarify this for me. Would be great to hear from someone. Thank you!

#2

In yoga asana, there is no “pose” called Full Moon. The practice of Chandra Namaskar can include poses such as crescent lunge, Ardha Chandrasana (1/2 moon) and Shashankasana, but are not limited to the previous. You will find a myriad of “Chandra Namaskar’s” in books and on the internet. It typically consists of 14 poses which coincides with the 14 phases of the moon. Chandra Namaskar is a cool, quiet, reflective practice just as Surya Namakar is a more heated and powerful practice. Chandra reflects Surya and brings about balance (Ha-tha),

And on a side note, there are styles of yoga that consider the new and full moon holidays and refrain from practice on those days.

#3

Thank you lotusgirl, this is really helpful!

#4

Sage Rountree, a yoga instructor in Chapel Hill, NC has created an online yoga class where she deconstructs the moon salutations. She typically teaches a class focused on the athlete, but her classes are really great for anyone, especially beginners. You can view the class on YogaVibes.com.