Pose of the Day

2. Ardha Chandrasana with Pada Hastasana

Half moon pose with hands to feet pose

photo by Tara's Bikram Experience

Benefits

Works into the whole skeletal and circulatory systems

Opens shoulder joints

Reduces or eliminates pain in the lower back

Good for abdominal obesity

Improves and strengthens every muscle in the central part of the body Increase the flexibility of the spine

Increases flexibility and strength of rectus abdominis, gluteus maximus, oblique, deltoid and trapezius muscles

photo by dietnesstea

Alleviates anxiety and reduces mental stress

Stimulates pituitary gland

Exercises colon, pancreas, kidneys, muscular, skeletal, respiratory and glandular systems

Firms and trims waistline, hips, abdomen, buttocks and thighs

Terilynn says:
photo by Bikram Yoga-Takoma Park
This pose is in three parts. It gives a very nice side and back stretch. This is the first "back bend" in the series and the first chance to open the heart area a bit.

I particularly enjoy the forward bend (the third part of the pose) because I am flexible and it warms me up for what's to come.

When you bend forward, you place your hands (palm side up) under your feet at your heels and stretch forward, pulling your heels as your forehead touches your shins. Nice stretch.

My biggest challenge with this poses is keeping my palms "glued" together, but I'm sure with time they will happen.

info by Quick Fit Yoga